2018 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – Bull

A Royal Legacy in Gold: The Black Bull of Clarence

In the annals of British heraldry, few symbols command as much respect and awe as the Black Bull of Clarence. This majestic creature, with its powerful stance and unwavering gaze, has stood as a sentinel of royal lineage for centuries. Now, this emblem of strength and nobility graces the face of the 2018 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin, continuing a legacy that stretches back to the tumultuous days of the Wars of the Roses.

The Black Bull of Clarence first emerged as a heraldic beast during the reign of Edward IV, the first Yorkist king of England. In an era where symbols spoke louder than words, Edward chose the bull to represent the indomitable spirit of the House of York. This was no mere decorative choice; it was a statement of power, a visual proclamation of the king's right to rule.

As the Wars of the Roses raged on, the Black Bull stood firm, a constant reminder of Yorkist strength amidst the chaos of civil war. It witnessed the brief return of Lancastrian rule under Henry VI, only to see Edward IV reclaim his throne with renewed vigor. The bull's presence in royal iconography solidified further when Richard III, Edward's brother, ascended to the throne, carrying forward this potent symbol of Yorkist pride.

Centuries later, when Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953, the Black Bull of Clarence took its place among the ten heraldic beasts that guarded the entrance to Westminster Abbey during her coronation. These Queen's Beasts, as they came to be known, represented the genealogical history of a monarch whose lineage united the houses of York and Lancaster, bringing an end to centuries of strife.

The 2018 Queen's Beast Gold Coin series pays homage to this rich tapestry of British history. Each coin in the collection celebrates one of these majestic creatures, with the Black Bull of Clarence standing proud among them. This quarter-ounce gold piece is not merely a coin; it is a tangible connection to a legacy of power, perseverance, and royal heritage that spans over half a millennium.

For numismatists and investors alike, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of British history cast in pure gold. It serves as a reminder that even in our modern age, the symbols of the past continue to resonate, carrying with them stories of triumph, struggle, and the enduring spirit of a nation.

Design Features

The obverse of this exquisite coin features the fifth official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by the talented Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This depiction of Her Majesty is notable for its regal poise and intricate detail, from the Diamond Diadem crown resting atop her head to the delicate pearl earrings adorning her ears. The Queen's gaze is fixed and forward-looking, embodying the steadfast nature of the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

On the reverse, the Black Bull of Clarence takes center stage, rendered with stunning precision. The bull is depicted in a rearing pose, its muscular form conveying power and determination. Behind the bull, a quartered shield displays the royal arms, a nod to the heraldic traditions that have shaped British monarchy for centuries. The level of detail is remarkable, from the bull's flaring nostrils to the intricate chainmail-like texture of its hide, showcasing the exceptional skill of the Royal Mint's artisans.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the fifth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Displays the Black Bull of Clarence in a rearing pose, with a quartered shield of royal arms

Investment Appeal

The 2018 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Bull represents an exceptional investment opportunity for both seasoned numismatists and newcomers to precious metal collecting. As part of the highly regarded Queen's Beasts series, this coin benefits from global recognition and consistent demand, factors that contribute to its liquidity and potential for appreciation.

The coin's gold content provides a hedge against economic uncertainty, while its limited mintage enhances its numismatic value. The rich historical significance of the Black Bull of Clarence adds an extra layer of appeal, making this coin not just a financial investment, but a piece of tangible history.

For collectors, the artistry and symbolism embedded in the design offer a compelling reason to add this piece to their holdings. Each detail tells a story, from the bull's fierce demeanor to the intricate shield it guards, providing endless fascination for those who appreciate the intersection of history, art, and numismatics.

In an era where digital assets dominate headlines, this physical gold coin stands as a testament to enduring value. It's a piece that can be held, admired, and passed down through generations, carrying with it the weight of British royal history and the timeless allure of pure gold.