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

A Mythical Guardian in Precious Metal

In the annals of British heraldry, few creatures capture the imagination quite like the majestic unicorn. This legendary beast, with its spiraling horn and noble bearing, has stood as a symbol of purity, innocence, and strength for centuries. Now, the Royal Mint brings this mythical guardian to life in a stunning quarter-ounce gold coin, part of the esteemed Queen's Beasts series.

The unicorn's journey through British history is as captivating as the creature itself. First appearing on Scottish royal arms in the 12th century, it became a powerful emblem of Scottish royalty. When James VI of Scotland ascended to the English throne as James I in 1603, uniting the two kingdoms, he brought the unicorn with him. It was then that this mystical creature found its place alongside the lion of England, supporting the royal coat of arms.

This pairing of lion and unicorn symbolized more than mere heraldic tradition; it represented the unification of two proud nations under one crown. The unicorn, typically depicted with a golden chain around its neck, embodied both the wild spirit of Scotland and its alliance with England. This chain, far from diminishing the unicorn's power, was seen as a representation of the monarch's ability to tame even the most untameable of beasts.

The 2018 Queen's Beasts Unicorn coin pays homage to this rich history, capturing the essence of a creature that has fired imaginations for generations. In medieval lore, the unicorn was believed to possess magical properties, its horn capable of purifying water and neutralizing poison. This association with purity made it a fitting symbol for royalty and, by extension, a perfect subject for a coin of the highest purity gold.

As part of the Queen's Beasts series, this coin draws inspiration from the ten heraldic statues that stood guard at Westminster Abbey during Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. These statues, each representing a facet of the royal lineage, included the unicorn of Scotland. By minting this coin, the Royal Mint not only continues a numismatic tradition but also preserves a piece of British royal history in precious metal.

For collectors and investors alike, this coin represents more than just its gold content. It is a tangible connection to centuries of British heritage, a celebration of mythological wonder, and a testament to the enduring appeal of legendary creatures in our modern world. As you hold this coin, you're not just possessing a piece of precious metal; you're holding a fragment of history, myth, and royal legacy all beautifully encapsulated in gold.

A Design Fit for Royalty

The 2018 Queen's Beasts Unicorn gold coin showcases the exceptional artistry for which the Royal Mint is renowned. On the obverse, we find the fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, created by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen with the Royal Diamond Diadem crown she wore for her coronation. The intricate details of the crown and the Queen's features are testament to Clark's skill and the coin's superb striking quality.

The reverse of the coin is where the unicorn truly comes to life. Here, we see the creature in a dynamic pose, rearing up as if ready to charge. Its spiral horn is prominently displayed, along with its flowing mane and tufted tail. The unicorn supports a shield bearing the Royal Arms of the United Kingdom as used in Scotland. This design includes the lion rampant in the first and fourth quarters, representing Scotland, with the three lions passant guardant of England in the second.

Surrounding the central image are the words "UNICORN OF SCOTLAND" along with the year of minting, weight, and fineness of the gold. The artist has masterfully balanced the need for detailed heraldic accuracy with a sense of movement and vitality, creating a design that is both historically faithful and visually striking.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• Purity: N/A
• Weight: N/A
• Grade: N/A
• Manufacturer: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Grading Service: N/A
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrays Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Royal Diamond Diadem crown.
• Reverse: Features a rearing unicorn supporting the shield of the Royal Arms of the UK.

A Golden Opportunity for Collectors and Investors

The 2018 Queen's Beasts Unicorn gold coin presents a compelling case for both numismatic enthusiasts and precious metal investors. Its limited mintage ensures a degree of scarcity that often translates to increased numismatic value over time. The coin's association with the prestigious Queen's Beasts series further enhances its collectible appeal, as completists seek to acquire each release in the set.

For investors, the coin's gold content offers a tangible store of value, backed by the reputation of the Royal Mint. Gold has long been considered a hedge against economic uncertainty, and coins like this provide a way to own the precious metal in a form that's easily traded and universally recognized.

Moreover, the coin's exquisite design and historical significance add a premium that often outpaces the mere melt value of its gold content. This combination of intrinsic and numismatic value makes the Queen's Beasts Unicorn an attractive option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolio with assets that have potential for appreciation beyond the fluctuations of the gold market.

In essence, this coin is more than just a beautiful piece of art or a unit of precious metal. It's a slice of British history, a nod to mythological lore, and a sound investment opportunity, all rolled into one stunning golden package. Whether you're drawn to its cultural significance, its artistic merit, or its potential for financial growth, the 2018 Queen's Beasts Unicorn gold coin stands as a worthy addition to any collection or investment strategy.