The Queen’s Panther Roars: A New Silver Coin Celebrates the Tudor Dynasty’s Symbolism
The Royal Mint has unveiled the seventh release in its Royal Tudor Beasts Collection, and this time, the spotlight shines on The Queen’s Panther. This stunning silver coin is a commemoration of the rich heraldry associated with King Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, capturing the legacy and strength of one of England's most famous royal unions. Designed by the talented David Lawrence in collaboration with the Historic Royal Palaces, this coin delves into the deep symbolism that the Tudor dynasty harnessed in its imagery.
A Roaring Beast of Heraldry
The Royal Tudor Beasts Collection is inspired by the majestic stone statues that line the Moat Bridge at Hampton Court Palace, one of the primary residences of King Henry VIII. These statues, known as The King’s Beasts, serve as symbolic guardians of the palace, representing the union between Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour.
Of the ten heraldic animals that guard the entrance, The Queen’s Panther is the last regal beast visitors encounter before entering the palace. With flames emanating from its mouth and ears, the panther is depicted in its traditional ‘incensed’ form, which in heraldry represents the creature’s enticing and fragrant breath. This imagery is more than mere decoration; it speaks to the power, allure, and legitimacy of Henry VIII's marriage to Jane Seymour.
While the Seymour Panther holds a shield bearing the Seymour family wings, the Queen’s Panther carries the Royal Coat of Arms, impaled to reflect the combined heritage of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour. This powerful symbolism encapsulates the merging of the two influential houses, a union that would solidify Jane Seymour’s place as queen and the mother of Henry’s only male heir, Edward VI.
A Celebration of Tudor Strength
The Tudors were masterful in their use of heraldic imagery to convey their virtues and power. The Queen’s Panther, which is also known as the Mortimer Panther, was gifted to Jane Seymour by Henry VIII, symbolising not only their marriage but also the wider House of Tudor’s lineage. The association of the panther with Henry VII, Henry VIII’s father, underscored the legitimacy of the Seymour union and their future offspring, further embedding the Seymour family into the royal narrative.
The placement of the Queen’s Panther opposite the Tudor Dragon on the Moat Bridge creates a striking visual and symbolic juxtaposition. In legend, the dragon is the only creature impervious to the panther’s fragrant breath. This pairing speaks to the enduring strength of the Tudor dynasty, even amidst adversity, and to the strategic unions that helped shape England's royal history.
An Artistic Masterpiece
David Lawrence, the collection’s artist, has carefully crafted this image with a deep respect for both history and artistry. The panther’s fierce stance and the flames emerging from its mouth and ears bring the medieval beast to life, making it a fitting tribute to the power and intrigue of the Tudor reign. On the coin’s reverse, the panther holds a shield, a symbol of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour’s combined arms, further cementing the idea of strength through union.
The obverse of the coin features the newly definitive portrait of King Charles III, marking this as one of the first commemorative coins of his reign. Designed by Martin Jennings, the portrait captures the king’s likeness with a simplicity and grace, showing his bare head facing left. The inscription surrounding the portrait reads: CHARLES III · D · G · REX · F · D · 5 POUNDS · 2025 (translated as “Charles the Third, by the Grace of God, King, Defender of the Faith”).
A Collector’s Treasure
The Queen’s Panther coin is more than just a beautiful piece of silver; it is a testament to the rich history of the Tudor dynasty and the artistic legacy of Hampton Court Palace. As the seventh coin in a ten-part series, it is sure to be a sought-after treasure for both history enthusiasts and coin collectors alike. Each release in the Royal Tudor Beasts Collection tells a different part of the Tudor story, and with only three designs left, anticipation is high for the final beasts that will complete the set.
With its intricate design, historical significance, and connection to the new reign of King Charles III, the Queen’s Panther coin is a celebration of England’s royal past and present. Whether you're a fan of heraldry, a history buff, or simply a lover of beautifully crafted precious metals, this coin is a must-have for your collection.
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