2019 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen’s Beasts – Falcon

A Regal Legacy Soars: The Falcon of the Plantagenets

In the annals of British history, few symbols command as much respect and admiration as the Falcon of the Plantagenets. This majestic bird of prey, with its keen eyes and razor-sharp talons, has long been associated with royalty, power, and nobility. The 2019 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen's Beasts – Falcon coin pays homage to this enduring symbol, capturing the essence of a dynasty that shaped the course of English history.

The Plantagenet dynasty, which ruled England from 1154 to 1485, adopted the falcon as one of its most prominent heraldic symbols. This choice was no mere coincidence; the falcon represented the qualities that the Plantagenets sought to embody – strength, vision, and the ability to strike swiftly and decisively. King Edward III, who ruled from 1327 to 1377, was particularly fond of falconry and elevated the bird's status in royal iconography.

As the Plantagenet line evolved, so too did the symbolism of the falcon. During the tumultuous Wars of the Roses, the white falcon became closely associated with the House of York. Edward IV, the first Yorkist king, often depicted the falcon perched upon an open fetterlock – a padlock used in falconry. This image served as a powerful metaphor for Edward's claim to the throne, suggesting that his path to kingship, once locked, had now been opened.

The falcon's significance extended beyond the Plantagenet era. Henry VII, the first Tudor monarch, cleverly incorporated the symbol into his own heraldry after his marriage to Elizabeth of York. This act symbolized the union of the Houses of Lancaster and York, bringing an end to the Wars of the Roses and ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity for England.

In 1953, as Queen Elizabeth II prepared for her coronation, ten heraldic beasts stood guard at the entrance to Westminster Abbey. Among them was the Falcon of the Plantagenets, a testament to the enduring legacy of this noble bird in British royal history. Now, this 2019 silver coin brings that legacy to life once more, allowing collectors and investors to hold a piece of regal history in their hands.

The Queen's Beasts collection, of which this Falcon coin is a part, serves as a bridge between past and present. It connects modern numismatists with centuries of royal tradition, offering a tangible link to the grand tapestry of British history. As you gaze upon the intricate details of this coin, you're not just seeing a beautiful piece of silver – you're witnessing the culmination of nearly a millennium of royal symbolism and artistry.

Design Features

The obverse of this magnificent coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, created by the talented Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen wearing the King George IV State Diadem – a fitting choice for a coin series that celebrates royal heraldry. The Queen's effigy is surrounded by the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "D.G. REG. F.D." (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor), and the coin's face value of "5 POUNDS."

On the reverse, the Falcon of the Plantagenets takes center stage in a design that masterfully blends historical accuracy with modern artistic flair. The falcon is depicted perched atop a shield bearing the badge of Edward IV – a falcon within an open fetterlock. This powerful image is framed by the words "FALCON OF THE PLANTAGENETS" and the year "2019," along with the coin's weight and purity. The intricate details of the falcon's feathers and the crisp lines of the heraldic shield showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the Royal Mint.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 2 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Royal Mint
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Falcon of the Plantagenets perched on a shield with Edward IV's badge

Investment Appeal

The 2019 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen's Beasts – Falcon coin presents a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its exceptional purity of 0.9999 fine silver ensures that it holds intrinsic value beyond its numismatic appeal. As part of the highly regarded Queen's Beasts series, this coin benefits from global recognition and strong demand among collectors worldwide.

The coin's historical significance and limited mintage add to its potential for appreciation over time. For investors looking to diversify their precious metals portfolio, this piece offers the dual advantages of silver bullion and collectible appeal. Its IRA eligibility further enhances its attractiveness as a long-term investment vehicle.

Moreover, the craftsmanship and design of this coin make it a true work of art. The Royal Mint's reputation for quality and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the coin, from the crisp strike to the intricate design elements. This combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and precious metal content makes the Falcon of the Plantagenets coin a standout addition to any collection or investment portfolio.