British Shengxiao Collection: Year of the Rat Gold Bullion Coin

United Kingdom (The Royal Mint) · 2020

A small 24-carat gold bullion coin featuring a rat among peonies on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.

Country: United Kingdom (The Royal Mint)
Year: 2020
Denomination: 25 GBP (British Pounds)
Metal: 0.9999 Fine Gold (24 Carat)
Grade: Mint State (Uncirculated Bullion condition)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 6, 2026More united kingdom (the royal mint) coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$600 - $700 (Value is primarily driven by the 'spot' price of gold plus a small collector premium)

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).

Grade assessment

Mint State (Uncirculated Bullion condition)

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.

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.

Similar coins

Australian Lunar series (Perth Mint) or Chinese Gold Pandas. Distinguishable by the '25 POUNDS' denomination and 'Elizabeth II' portrait.

Care & preservation

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.