The 2022 Lion of England 2oz silver coin embodies the majestic symbolism of Britain’s iconic lion, drawing from the heraldic beasts that once lined the Moat Bridge at Hampton Court. As the inaugural release in The Royal Mint’s Royal Tudor Beasts Collection, this coin pays tribute to the emblematic lion, a potent symbol that endured throughout England’s Tudor dynasty.
Crafted with two ounces of pure 999 silver, this exclusive bullion coin offers collectors a chance to secure the first striking in a highly anticipated 10-coin series commemorating the heraldic beasts adorning Henry VIII’s famous palace. Availability is limited, making it essential for enthusiasts to acquire the 2022 Lion of England coin promptly.
Design and Symbolism
The reverse design of the 2022 Lion of England coin is a stunning artistic representation that pays homage to England’s rich heraldic history. Crafted by the talented illustrator David Lawrence, the design features the iconic Lion of England in an imposing stance, with sharp claws and a majestic mane adorned by a regal crown. The lion clutches a shield bearing the combined arms of King Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Tudor dynasty.
On the obverse, the coin features the fifth portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by the renowned engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, captures the monarch’s regal presence and serves as a testament to the continuity of British tradition.
Lawrence’s intricate artistry brings to life the Lion of England, the oldest and most revered of all English heraldic symbols, drawing inspiration from the magnificent Moat Bridge Royal Beasts that once guarded Hampton Court Palace, meticulously crafting the coin’s design elements, evoking a sense of power and majesty befitting the “king of the beasts.”
Minting Process and Specifications
The 2022 Lion of England coin is available in various specifications, catering to collectors and investors alike. The flagship offering is the 2 oz silver bullion coin, containing 2 troy ounces of .9999 fine silver in Brilliant Uncirculated condition. It bears a face value of 5 Pound sterling (GBP) and is guaranteed legal tender by the British government.
For those seeking a more exclusive option, the Royal Mint has also issued a limited edition 1 oz gold proof coin. Minting only 400 coins, numismatists highly seek these coins, struck in 31.21 grams of 999.9 fine gold.
The coin carries a face value of £100, further enhancing its appeal as a legal tender investment.
The minting process adheres to the highest standards, with coins available in protective capsules, acrylic tubes of 10 coins, or boxes of 200 coins for the silver bullion variant. The original Royal Mint branded slipcase issues the gold proof edition, accompanied by a coin capsule and informative details about the heraldic Tudor Beasts, particularly the lion.
Other specifications in the series include:
- 10 oz .9999 fine silver coin (£10 face value)
- 1/4 oz .9999 fine gold coin (£25 face value)
- 5 oz .9999 fine silver coin
- Brilliant Uncirculated £5 cupronickel coin (38.61mm diameter, 28.28g weight)
With meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to the highest minting standards, the Royal Mint ensures that each coin in the Tudor Beasts Collection is a true representation of Britain’s rich heraldic heritage.
Collector’s Value and Investment Potential
The 2022 Lion of England coin offers an appealing investment opportunity for both collectors and numismatists. Anticipated to appreciate in value due to their scarcity, these coins have a limited mintage of only 400 pieces for the 1 oz gold proof variant. Priced at around £2,500 (VAT exempt), the coin carries a premium of approximately £69 over the current spot price of gold, providing an affordable entry point for investors seeking tax-efficient precious metal investments.
Key investment highlights:
- Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Exempt: As a legal tender issued by the British government, the coin is exempt from Capital Gains Tax, enhancing its appeal as a long-term investment.
- VAT-Free: The Royal Mint’s commemorative coins are VAT-free, further adding to their cost-effectiveness for collectors and investors.
- Limited Availability: With a mintage of just 400 pieces, the 1 oz gold proof Lion of England coin is highly limited, driving demand and potential price appreciation.
- Authorized Dealer: Reputable dealers like the Britannia Coin Company offer these coins, ensuring authenticity and expert guidance for investors.
Experts recommend taking swift action to acquire the 2022 Lion of England coin. Its tax-efficient status, limited availability, and potential for value appreciation make it an attractive opportunity for collectors and investors aiming to diversify their portfolios with a tangible asset steeped in British heritage. Reflecting the rapid sell-out experience of previous releases in the Queen’s Beasts series, premiums are expected to surge.
Conclusion
The majestic Lion of England 2022 coin stands as a testament to Britain’s rich heraldic history and the enduring legacy of the Tudor dynasty. Crafted with meticulous artistry and minted to exacting standards, this inaugural release in The Royal Mint’s Royal Tudor Beasts Collection captures the essence of England’s iconic lion, a symbol of power and majesty. Its limited availability and tax-efficient status make it an attractive investment opportunity for collectors and numismatists alike.
As the first in a highly anticipated 10-coin series, the 2022 Lion of England coin represents a unique chance to secure a piece of British heritage. Whether appreciated for its artistic merit, symbolic significance, or potential for value appreciation, this coin is sure to captivate enthusiasts and investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with a tangible asset steeped in historical significance.