2020 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – White Horse

In the annals of British royal history, few symbols are as enduring and majestic as the White Horse of Hanover. This noble steed, galloping through centuries of heraldry, finds its latest incarnation in the 2020 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin. As the ninth release in the celebrated Queen’s Beasts series, this coin pays homage to a lineage that stretches back to the early 18th century, when George I ascended to the British throne, bringing with him the iconography of his native Hanover.

The White Horse, emblematic of purity, intellect, and nobility, has been a powerful heraldic device since medieval times. Its inclusion in the British royal arms dates to 1714, marking the beginning of the Hanoverian dynasty’s rule over Great Britain. This pivotal moment in history saw the unification of two great European powers, forever altering the course of British monarchy and leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s heraldic tradition.

As we trace the lineage of this symbol, we find ourselves transported to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. There, amidst the pomp and pageantry of Westminster Abbey, stood ten heraldic beasts, each representing a facet of the new monarch’s royal ancestry. Among them, the White Horse of Hanover stood proud, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Hanoverian connection to the British crown.

The Queen’s Beasts series, initiated by the Royal Mint in 2016, breathes new life into these ancient symbols. Each coin in the collection serves as a tangible link to Britain’s rich royal heritage, allowing collectors and enthusiasts to hold a piece of history in their hands. The White Horse, with its powerful stance and regal bearing, embodies the strength and continuity of the British monarchy.

This quarter-ounce gold coin is more than just a precious metal investment; it’s a window into the intricate tapestry of British royal history. It offers collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of art that connects them to centuries of tradition, from the fields of Hanover to the halls of Buckingham Palace. As we delve deeper into the design and significance of this coin, we uncover a story of power, legacy, and the enduring symbols that have shaped a nation.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2020 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin showcases the masterful artistry of Jody Clark, featuring his portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This effigy, the fifth to grace British coinage during Her Majesty’s reign, captures the monarch with regal poise and dignity. The Queen wears the George IV State Diadem, a crown traditionally worn for the State Opening of Parliament. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “D.G. REG F.D.” (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor), and the coin’s face value, all set against a field of intricate security engraving that has become a hallmark of modern Royal Mint bullion coins.

The reverse design, also crafted by Jody Clark, brings the White Horse of Hanover to life with stunning detail. The horse is depicted in a powerful rearing pose, its mane and tail flowing with dynamic energy. Behind the horse stands a shield bearing the royal arms as they appeared during the Hanoverian era. This shield is quartered, showcasing the Three Lions of England, the Lion of Scotland, the Fleur-de-Lis of France, and the Irish Harp, with an inescutcheon of the arms of Hanover at its center. The composition is framed by the inscriptions “WHITE HORSE OF HANOVER,” the year “2020,” and the specifications “1/4 OZ · FINE GOLD · 999.9,” affirming the coin’s purity and weight.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Depicts the White Horse of Hanover with the royal arms shield

Investment Appeal

The 2020 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – White Horse stands as a compelling investment for both numismatists and precious metal enthusiasts. Its appeal lies not only in its gold content but also in its historical significance and limited mintage. As part of the highly sought-after Queen’s Beasts series, this coin benefits from global recognition and strong collector demand, potentially driving premiums above its intrinsic gold value.

The coin’s design, rooted in centuries of British heraldry, adds a layer of cultural and historical value that transcends mere bullion investment. For collectors, it represents an opportunity to own a piece of British royal history, minted to exacting standards by the renowned Royal Mint. The series’ popularity ensures liquidity, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their precious metals portfolio with an asset that combines intrinsic value with numismatic appeal.

Moreover, as the ninth release in a ten-coin series, this White Horse of Hanover coin holds particular interest for completists and series collectors. Its position near the culmination of the Queen’s Beasts collection may enhance its long-term collectible value. Whether acquired as a stand-alone piece or as part of the complete set, this coin offers a unique blend of aesthetic beauty, historical significance, and investment potential, making it a worthy addition to any discerning collection.