The lion is a traditional symbol of courage and strength, an intimidating but graceful figure that regularly appears in emblems and coin designs. The ‘King of the Beasts’ resonates with each of the United Kingdom’s home nations, making it a fitting choice for The Queen’s Beasts – the heraldic symbols inherited by Her Majesty The Queen when she was crowned in 1953.

The Lion of England is the first release in the collection. Royal Mint coin designer Jody Clark has taken centuries of tradition and combined it with contemporary design to create a series of dynamic reverse designs. Jody’s interpretation of the lion is joined by his coinage portrait of Her Majesty on the obverse. The coin is struck in five ounces of 999.9 fine gold, is finished to Proof standard and comes with a booklet produced in collaboration with Clive Cheesman, Richmond Herald at the College of Arms.