2020 1 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Platinum Coin – Yale of Beaufort

In the annals of British heraldry, few creatures capture the imagination quite like the Yale of Beaufort. This mythical beast, with its distinctive boar-like tusks and spotted coat, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of England's royal lineage. The Yale's journey through history began with Lady Margaret Beaufort, the matriarch of the Tudor dynasty, whose influence would shape the course of English monarchy for generations to come.

As the mother of King Henry VII, Lady Margaret Beaufort's heraldic beast became a symbol of strength and determination. The Yale, described in medieval bestiaries as a creature of immense power and nobility, perfectly embodied the resilience of the Tudor claim to the throne. Its inclusion in the royal arms spoke volumes about the legitimacy and authority of the new dynasty, emerging from the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses.

The Yale's significance extends beyond mere symbolism. It represents a pivotal moment in English history, marking the transition from the medieval era to the Renaissance. As Henry VII consolidated power, the Yale stood as a silent sentinel, watching over the birth of modern England. Its presence in royal iconography served as a constant reminder of the Tudor's right to rule, a visual assertion of their claim to the crown.

In the centuries that followed, the Yale of Beaufort continued to play a role in royal heraldry, albeit a more subdued one. It remained a part of the royal bestiary, appearing in various forms across coats of arms, architectural embellishments, and ceremonial regalia. The Yale's enduring presence speaks to the deep-rooted nature of British tradition and the importance placed on historical continuity within the monarchy.

Today, the Yale of Beaufort emerges once again into the spotlight, this time immortalized in precious metal. Its resurgence on a platinum coin minted by the Royal Mint is not merely a nod to history but a bridge between past and present. This modern interpretation of an ancient symbol invites collectors and enthusiasts to hold a piece of British heritage in their hands, to connect tangibly with the legends and lore that have shaped a nation.

As we examine this exquisite coin, we are reminded of the power of symbols to transcend time. The Yale of Beaufort, once a heraldic device known only to a select few, now stands ready to captivate a global audience. It serves as a testament to the enduring fascination with royal history and the artistry that brings it to life in the present day.

Design Features

The obverse of this magnificent coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, created by the talented Jody Clark. This regal effigy depicts the Queen wearing the George IV State Diadem, a crown traditionally worn for the State Opening of Parliament. The portrait is surrounded by the inscription "ELIZABETH II · D · G · REG · F · D · 100 POUNDS", affirming the coin's legal tender status and the monarch's titles.

On the reverse, the Yale of Beaufort takes center stage in a design that masterfully blends medieval symbolism with modern minting techniques. The creature is depicted in a powerful stance, its muscular body poised as if ready to leap from the coin's surface. The Yale's distinctive features are rendered in exquisite detail – from its tufted mane to its spiraling horns and prominent tusks. Behind the Yale, a shield bearing the badge of Margaret Beaufort adds historical context and depth to the design.

The background of the reverse is adorned with a fine chainmail pattern, a nod to the medieval origins of the Yale symbol and a security feature that adds both aesthetic appeal and authenticity to the coin. The inscriptions "YALE OF BEAUFORT · 1 OZ · FINE PLATINUM · 999.5 · 2020" encircle the design, providing essential information about the coin's specifications and year of issue.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Platinum
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Yale of Beaufort design with shield and chainmail background

Investment Appeal

The 2020 1 oz Great Britain Queen's Beast Platinum Coin – Yale of Beaufort represents a unique opportunity for both collectors and investors. Platinum, known for its rarity and industrial applications, offers diversification potential beyond gold and silver. The coin's association with the prestigious Queen's Beasts series enhances its collectible value, potentially driving demand among numismatists worldwide.

The limited mintage of platinum coins compared to their gold and silver counterparts adds an element of scarcity, which can be attractive to investors looking for assets with growth potential. Furthermore, the coin's legal tender status in the United Kingdom provides an additional layer of security and authenticity.

For collectors, the Yale of Beaufort coin offers a chance to own a piece of British royal history, beautifully rendered in one of the world's most precious metals. The coin's exquisite design and the cultural significance of the Yale make it a standout addition to any collection focused on royal themes or mythological creatures.

Investors may find particular appeal in the coin's high purity and the reputation of the Royal Mint, one of the world's oldest and most respected minting institutions. This combination of factors – rarity, purity, historical significance, and institutional backing – positions the Yale of Beaufort platinum coin as a compelling asset for those looking to expand their precious metals portfolio with a product that offers both intrinsic and numismatic value.