2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – Falcon

In the annals of British heraldry, few symbols command as much respect and awe as the Falcon of the Plantagenets. This majestic bird, with its keen eyes and razor-sharp talons, has soared through centuries of English history, embodying the strength, vision, and nobility of one of England's most influential royal dynasties. The 2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Falcon pays homage to this enduring symbol, capturing its essence in gleaming gold.

The Falcon's association with the Plantagenet line traces back to Edward III, who ruled England from 1327 to 1377. Edward, a monarch known for his military prowess and political acumen, chose the falcon as his personal badge. This choice was no mere whim; falconry was a noble pursuit in medieval Europe, and the falcon itself was revered for its speed, precision, and regal bearing – qualities that Edward sought to embody in his reign.

As the Plantagenet dynasty flourished, the falcon became more than just a personal emblem. It evolved into a powerful heraldic device, appearing on coats of arms, royal seals, and even adorning the halls of power. The falcon, often depicted with fetterlock – an open padlock – symbolized not just the Plantagenets' right to rule but also their commitment to unlocking the potential of the realm.

This symbolism carried through generations, with each Plantagenet monarch adding their own interpretation to the falcon's legacy. During the tumultuous Wars of the Roses, the falcon served as a rallying point for Yorkist forces, its wings spread wide over battlefields and council chambers alike. Even as the Tudor dynasty rose to power, supplanting the Plantagenets, the falcon remained a potent reminder of England's rich heraldic traditions.

In modern times, the Falcon of the Plantagenets stands as one of the ten heraldic beasts that lined the entrance to Westminster Abbey during Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. These beasts, each representing a strand of the Queen's royal lineage, embody the depth and complexity of British monarchical history. The falcon, in particular, serves as a bridge between medieval pageantry and contemporary royal symbolism.

It is this rich tapestry of history and symbolism that the 2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Falcon seeks to encapsulate. Each strike of the coin is not just an act of minting; it's a continuation of a narrative that has shaped English identity for over 600 years. For numismatists and history enthusiasts alike, this coin offers a tangible connection to the grandeur of the Plantagenet era and the enduring power of heraldic tradition.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Falcon showcases the fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Created by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark, this portrait captures the Queen in regal splendor, wearing the George IV State Diadem. The intricate details of the crown, with its intertwining leaves and crosses pattée, are rendered with exquisite precision, reflecting the coin's superior craftsmanship.

On the reverse, the Falcon of the Plantagenets takes center stage, depicted in a pose of majestic vigilance. The bird's powerful wings are partially spread, suggesting readiness for flight, while its sharp beak and piercing eyes convey a sense of keen awareness. In its talons, the falcon grasps a shield bearing the badge of Edward IV – a falcon within a fetterlock. This design, also crafted by Jody Clark, masterfully balances historical accuracy with artistic flair.

The background of the reverse features a textured pattern reminiscent of chainmail, a subtle nod to the medieval origins of the heraldic beast. This texture not only adds visual interest but also serves to highlight the smooth, polished surfaces of the falcon and shield. The coin's denomination and year of issue are elegantly incorporated into the design, completing a composition that is both informative and aesthetically pleasing.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Depicts the Falcon of the Plantagenets, holding a shield with Edward IV's badge

Investment Appeal

The 2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Falcon represents an exceptional opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its gold content provides intrinsic value, offering a hedge against economic uncertainty and inflation. The coin's limited mintage enhances its numismatic appeal, potentially driving appreciation over time.

For collectors, this coin is a must-have addition to the Queen's Beasts series, each installment of which has been met with enthusiasm in the numismatic community. The historical significance of the Falcon of the Plantagenets, combined with the coin's exquisite design, makes it a conversation piece as well as a valuable collectible.

Investors will appreciate the coin's liquidity, backed by the reputation of the Royal Mint and the global recognition of British coinage. The Queen's Beasts series has shown strong performance in the secondary market, suggesting potential for long-term value growth.

Moreover, as part of a larger narrative of British history and heraldry, this coin offers more than just precious metal content. It's an investment in cultural heritage, a tangible link to centuries of royal legacy. For those seeking to diversify their portfolio with assets that combine intrinsic value with historical significance, the 2019 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Gold Coin – Falcon stands as a compelling choice.