2016-11-21 Mon

The second design of the Royal Mint’s bullion series called “The Queen’s Beasts” was released on 16th November. 10 creatures, some mythical, some real have been featured throughout 100 years of British royal heraldry. They symbolise strength, power, courage, and resolve which are featured on flags, crests, and coins.

The first beast featured on a coin in this series was the long-standing Lion of England which became popular when King James I came to the throne in 1603. The second coin depicts the mythical griffin, which represents strength, courage, watchfulness, swiftness. It was associated with Edward III, who ruled for more than 50 years, and appeared on his private seal.

The 2017-dated coins designed by Jody Clark features a griffin standing on its hind legs with wings raised, its talons holding a shield that features the badge of the House of Windsor, against a chain-mail pattern background. Other inscriptions include GRIFFIN OF EDWARD III, the metallic content and the date. The obverse features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

The £5 coin is made of .999 silver, while the £10, £25 and £100 are all made of .9999 gold, with an increase in size and weight.