The 2020 White Lion of Mortimer is the eighth release in The Royal Mint's prestigious Queen's Beasts series, which celebrates the heraldic beasts that represent Queen Elizabeth II's royal ancestry. Struck in 2 troy ounces of .9999 fine silver, this Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coin features the rare White Lion, a powerful emblem of loyalty, justice, and royal legitimacy. Unlike the rampant Lion of England, the White Lion stands passant guardant, on all fours but with a watchful gaze, symbolizing calm strength and controlled power passed down through the Mortimer and York family lines.
Historical Insight:
The White Lion was the badge of the Mortimer family, who were major claimants to the throne in the 14th century and forerunners to the House of York. When Edward IV ascended to the throne, he embraced the Mortimer symbolism to affirm his legitimate claim. The lion's calm, upright posture contrasts with more aggressive heraldic poses, reflecting royalty rooted in rightful inheritance and quiet strength.
Highlights:
- Denomination: £5 (GBP)
- Year: 2020
- Condition: Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)
- Issuer: The Royal Mint (United Kingdom)
- Obverse: Features the fifth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, by Jody Clark, with surrounding inscriptions of her name, title, and face value.
- Reverse: Showcases the White Lion of Mortimer, standing in a composed yet alert stance behind a shield bearing a white rose encircled by the golden sun of York: a double badge used by Edward IV. Designed by Jody Clark, the outer rim reads: "WHITE LION OF MORTIMER," "2 OZ FINE SILVER," "9999," "2020."
- Series: Queen's Beasts (Coin 8 of 10)
Specifications
SKU: |
726 |
Year: |
2020 |
Grade: |
Brilliant Unc |
Grade Service: |
None |
Denomination: |
5 Pounds |
Mint Mark: |
Not Shown |
Metal Content: |
2 Troy Oz |
Purity: |
0.9999 |
Thickness: |
6 mm |
Diameter: |
38.61 mm |
