2017 Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – Red Dragon of Wales, 1 oz .9999 Fine
The 2017 Red Dragon of Wales is the third release in The Royal Mint’s prestigious Queen’s Beasts Series. Struck in 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold, this Brilliant Uncirculated coin showcases the Red Dragon—a national symbol of Wales—standing guard with a shield bearing the royal arms of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd.
Coin Highlights
- Minted by: The Royal Mint (UK)
- Gold Purity: .9999 fine (24 karat)
- Weight: 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams)
- Diameter: 32.69 mm
- Thickness: 2.7 mm
- Denomination: £100 (GBP)
- Edge: Reeded
- Year of Issue: 2017
- Type: Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)
- Legal Tender: Yes, UK government-backed
Design Details
- Obverse: Features the fifth effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark, with inscriptions including “ELIZABETH II • D G REG F D • 100 POUNDS.”
- Reverse: Displays the Red Dragon of Wales clutching a shield with four lions passant, symbolizing the arms of the last sovereign Prince of Wales.
Additional Details
Issued during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, this coin represents centuries of British heraldry and national symbolism. The Red Dragon, rooted in Celtic mythology, has served as an emblem of power and resilience in Wales for over a millennium.
As a 24-karat investment-grade coin, it combines the appeal of high gold purity with limited mintage and cultural depth—making it ideal for collectors and long-term precious metals investors seeking VAT-free and CGT-exempt UK coinage.
Questions & Answers
What is the Red Dragon of Wales Queen’s Beast?
The Red Dragon of Wales Queen’s Beast is one of ten heraldic statues commissioned for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. It symbolizes the historical link between the monarchy and Welsh royal lineage, specifically the arms of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. In coin form, it appears as part of The Royal Mint’s Queen’s Beasts bullion series, issued from 2016 to 2021.
What is the 2017 Red Dragon of Wales?
The Red Dragon of Wales 2017 is the third release in the Queen’s Beasts gold coin series issued by The Royal Mint. It contains 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold and features a design honoring Welsh heritage and royal symbolism. The reverse shows the dragon grasping a shield bearing the arms of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, last sovereign Prince of Wales.
What does the red dragon symbolize in Wales?
The red dragon symbolizes strength, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Wales. Known as Y Ddraig Goch, it appears on the Welsh national flag and traces its origins to ancient Celtic mythology. Over time, it became a symbol of resistance and national pride, especially during English occupation.
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