2017 GB Prf 1 oz Silver Queen's Beasts Unicorn (w/Box & COA)

In 2017, the Royal Mint celebrated a major milestone in British history when Queen Elizabeth II became the longest-reigning living monarch in the world. To honor the ancestral heritage of her family, the mint produced a stunning series of coins known as the Queen's Beasts. This particular two-pound coin, containing one troy ounce of 0.999 fine silver, represents the second release in this celebrated collection. The reverse of the coin features a dynamic depiction of a unicorn leaping over a shield. Created by designer Jody Clark, the imagery was developed in partnership with Clive Cheesman, who serves as the Richmond Herald at the College of Arms. The unicorn is a deeply historic symbol, first emerging in Scottish heraldry during the twelfth century. Centuries later, James I of England selected the mythical beast to join the English Lion as a supporter of the Royal Arms, symbolizing the union of the realms. On the obverse, the coin displays the fifth official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, also designed by Jody Clark. With a maximum mintage of only 6,250 pieces, this silver proof coin showcases a brilliant contrast of frosted details and mirrored fields, making it a spectacular example of modern British numismatic art.