The Legacy of the White Lion: 2020 Queens beast
The White Lion of Mortimer 2oz Silver Coin stands out as one of the most historically compelling releases in The Royal Mint’s highly celebrated Queen's Beasts series. Issued in 2019 as the eighth design in the collection, this coin brings centuries of British royal heritage into the modern precious metals market. Unlike the aggressive stance of the Lion of England, the White Lion of Mortimer is traditionally depicted as a badge of discipline and loyalty, representing the Yorkist lineage of King Edward IV. Masterfully brought to life by coin designer Jody Clark, the reverse features the majestic, un-crowned lion holding a shield emblazoned with the white rose of York en soleil, creating a striking narrative piece that connects medieval battlefields straight to a modern investor's portfolio.
Beyond its rich historical narrative, this specific coin revolutionized the physical layout of modern silver stacking by popularising the two-ounce legal tender format. Struck from .9999 fine silver, the coin boasts a chunky, substantial feel in the hand that standard one-ounce rounds simply cannot replicate. The Royal Mint elevated the security and aesthetics of the strike by incorporating a secure, micro-engraved chain-mail background texture. This intricate finish catches the light dynamically while serving as an anti-counterfeiting measure, making the White Lion a perfect marriage of high-purity bullion utility and exquisite numismatic proof-like artistry.
As the Queen’s Beasts series concluded and secondary market supplies dried up, the White Lion of Mortimer secured its status as a highly sought-after semi-numismatic treasure. Because these coins were minted for a limited window and are no longer actively produced, they routinely command a strong premium over the spot price of silver compared to generic bullion. Collectors aggressively hunt for this specific piece to complete their 10-beast sets, ensuring that its liquidity and value remain robust even during broader market consolidation. For precious metal enthusiasts looking to hedge against inflation while capturing numismatic growth, this two-ounce masterpiece remains a foundational asset.
