2021 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen’s Beasts – Greyhound

The White Greyhound of Richmond, a symbol of loyalty and nobility, takes center stage in the 2021 installment of the Queen's Beasts series. This majestic creature, with its sleek form and regal bearing, has been a part of British heraldry since the 15th century. Its inclusion in this series pays homage to the rich tapestry of royal lineage and the enduring symbols that have stood as silent sentinels through the ages.

The story of the White Greyhound begins with Edmund Tudor, the 1st Earl of Richmond and father of King Henry VII. As a badge of his earldom, Edmund adopted this swift and graceful hound, symbolizing the loyalty and courage that would become hallmarks of the Tudor dynasty. When Henry Tudor ascended to the throne as Henry VII, vanquishing Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, he brought with him the emblem of his father's house. The White Greyhound of Richmond thus became a powerful symbol of the new Tudor era, representing the swift justice and unwavering loyalty that Henry VII promised to bring to a nation torn by the Wars of the Roses.

Throughout Henry VII's reign, the White Greyhound appeared on royal standards, badges, and even adorned the gates of Richmond Palace. This symbol served as a constant reminder of the Tudor claim to the throne and their commitment to unifying a fractured kingdom. The greyhound's qualities of speed, grace, and fidelity mirrored the aspirations of the new dynasty, eager to distance itself from the tumultuous past and race towards a prosperous future.

The inclusion of the White Greyhound in the Queen's Beasts series is not merely a nod to historical heraldry; it is a testament to the continuity of British monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II, whose coronation in 1953 inspired this coin series, could trace her lineage back to the Tudors. The ten heraldic beasts that stood guard at her coronation, including the White Greyhound, represented the diverse strands of royal heritage that converged in her person, uniting the past with the present.

In the realm of numismatics, the White Greyhound of Richmond coin holds a special place. It continues the tradition of the Queen's Beasts series, which has captivated collectors and investors alike since its inception in 2016. Each beast in this series tells a story, and the White Greyhound speaks of loyalty, swiftness, and the enduring legacy of a dynasty that changed the course of English history. This coin, therefore, is not just a piece of precious metal; it is a tangible connection to centuries of royal heritage, a miniature ambassador of British history that can be held in one's hand.

As we examine this exquisite piece, we are reminded that coins are more than currency; they are artifacts of cultural memory, preserving in silver the symbols and stories that have shaped nations. The 2021 Queen's Beasts White Greyhound of Richmond is a bridge between past and present, inviting its owner to become a custodian of history while potentially securing a valuable asset for the future.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2021 Queen's Beasts White Greyhound of Richmond coin showcases the definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by the talented Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen in her later years, wearing the King George IV State Diadem—a crown traditionally worn for the State Opening of Parliament. The Queen's effigy is surrounded by the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "D.G. REG. F.D." (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor, meaning "By the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith"), and the denomination "5 POUNDS." The background features a sophisticated guilloche pattern, adding depth and security to the design.

The reverse side presents a masterful interpretation of the White Greyhound of Richmond by Jody Clark. The greyhound is depicted in a dynamic pose, capturing the breed's characteristic grace and speed. It stands proudly before a shield bearing the Tudor rose, a symbol that unites the red rose of Lancaster with the white rose of York, representing the end of the Wars of the Roses. The greyhound wears a collar, emphasizing its noble lineage and connection to the royal house. Surrounding this central image are the words "WHITE GREYHOUND OF RICHMOND," along with the year of minting, "2021," the weight "2 OZ," and the metal purity "FINE SILVER 999.9." The artist's initials, JC, are discreetly placed near the base of the design, a hallmark of Clark's work on the series.

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: The White Greyhound of Richmond standing before a shield with the Tudor rose

Investment Appeal

The 2021 2 oz Silver Queen's Beasts White Greyhound of Richmond coin presents a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its high purity of 0.9999 fine silver ensures that it holds intrinsic value as a precious metal asset, while its limited mintage adds numismatic appeal. As part of the highly regarded Queen's Beasts series, this coin benefits from global recognition and strong demand among collectors, potentially leading to premium appreciation over time.

The coin's connection to British royal history enhances its collectible value, appealing to those interested in historical artifacts as well as silver investors. Its status as legal tender in the United Kingdom provides an additional layer of security and authenticity. The brilliant uncirculated condition guarantees that each detail of the intricate design is preserved, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate artistic craftsmanship in their investments.

Furthermore, its IRA eligibility opens up opportunities for diversifying retirement portfolios with a tangible asset that combines historical significance with precious metal value. As governments continue to print fiat currency, many investors turn to silver as a hedge against inflation, making this coin an attractive option for those looking to protect their wealth.

The Queen's Beasts series has shown consistent popularity since its introduction, and as the collection nears completion, earlier releases like the White Greyhound may become increasingly sought after. This potential for scarcity, coupled with the coin's aesthetic and historical value, positions it as an investment that could yield both personal enjoyment and financial returns for years to come.