British Shengxiao Collection: Year of the Rat Gold Bullion Coin
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (The Royal Mint)
Year of Issue: 2020
Denomination: 25 GBP (British Pounds)
Composition: 0.9999 Fine Gold (24 Carat)
Brief Description
A small 24-carat gold bullion coin featuring a rat among peonies on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.
Historical Significance
Part of the Royal Mint's Lunar Series (Shengxiao Collection) which launched in 2014, blending British craftsmanship with Chinese zodiac traditions. The Year of the Rat is the first sign in the 12-year lunar cycle.
Estimated Value
$600 - $700 (Value is primarily driven by the 'spot' price of gold plus a small collector premium)
Care Instructions
Gold is a soft metal; handle only by the edges using lint-free gloves. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or flip to prevent scratches. No cleaning should ever be performed.
Mint Mark
None (Struck at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales)
Mintage & Rarity
Limited mintage for the bullion version, typically restricted to demand within the issue year; considered a common bullion item but popular with collectors.
Weight & Diameter
7.80 grams (1/4 troy oz); 22.00 mm diameter
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Mint State (Uncirculated Bullion condition)
Obverse (Front)
The fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, set against a guilloche background pattern. Inscriptions: '25 POUNDS', 'ELIZABETH II', 'D.G. REG. F. D.' (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor).
Reverse (Back)
A detailed depiction of a rat sniffing the air, surrounded by peony flowers, symbolizing prosperity and luck. Inscriptions: 'YEAR OF THE RAT · 2020', '1/4 OZ FINE GOLD 999.9', and the Chinese character for Rat (鼠). Designed by P.J. Lynch.
What Drives This Coin's Value
The primary value factor is the current market price of 1/4 ounce of gold. Secondary factors include the premium for the Lunar series and the physical condition (lack of scratches or copper spots).
Similar Coins
Australian Lunar series (Perth Mint) or Chinese Gold Pandas. Distinguishable by the '25 POUNDS' denomination and 'Elizabeth II' portrait.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check weight with a high-precision scale (should be exactly 7.8g) and test with a Sigma Metalytics verifier. Watch for mushy details in the peonies or incorrect font on the lettering.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties reported; focus is on the standard bullion strike.
Created At: 2026-06-06T08:34:45.905684