The Royal Mint has struck a commemorative Fine silver £20 coin featuring the Welsh dragon, an enduring symbol of Wales that celebrates of the spirit of the people.
The 2016-dated Welsh Dragon Celebration coin fuses craftsmanship with enduring Welsh symbolism and Arthurian legend. The third in a series of £20 coins issued this year, it also features British iconography by bringing to life the cultural identity of Wales and its people, transforming fiery red heritage into Fine silver.
“This Welsh Dragon £20 coin portrays the Welsh spirit and the excellence and craftsmanship of our workforce, something of which we are all so proud,” said Anne Jessopp, director of commemorative coin.
DESIGN
The dragon design is by sculptor Norman Sillman who trained at the Royal College of Art and became a regular exhibitor at the Royal Academy. He received his first commission from The Royal Mint in 1958.
The design is taken from a drawing provided by the College of Arms. It first appeared on the £1 coin in 1995 and 2000 as part of a series depicting the four nations of the U.K., England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Each coin has a weight of 15.71 grams and a 27-mm diameter.