The great Unicorn of Scotland: majestic in 10oz and 2oz

The Unicorn of Scotland holds a distinct place in modern bullion lore. As the fourth release in The Royal Mint’s legendary Queen’s Beasts silver series, this 2018 coin remains a highly sought-after prize for collectors and stackers alike. Designed by Jody Clark, the reverse features a striking, stylized unicorn rearing over a shield that proudly displays the historic lion rampant of Scotland. Struck in two troy ounces of .9999 fine silver, its impressive thickness and hefty weight in the hand immediately set it apart from standard sovereign bullion.

Beyond its captivating heraldic design, the 2-ounce silver Unicorn represents a fascinating turning point for the Queen's Beasts series itself. For numismatic purists, this release captures a brief, specific era in the Mint's engineering history. It marks one of the final coins to feature the original "stucco" textured background on the obverse behind the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, right before the Mint permanently transitioned to a secure "diamond" chainmail pattern. This subtle production detail makes the Unicorn a crucial transition piece for anyone attempting to assemble a historically accurate, date-run set.

Today, securing a premium-quality Unicorn of Scotland on the secondary market requires patience and a keen eye. Because these 2-ounce bullion coins were issued with a brilliant uncirculated finish rather than a protected proof strike, finding raw examples completely free of milk spots or minor contact marks has become increasingly difficult over the years. As a result, pristine specimens and those graded highly by third-party services command a healthy premium well above the spot price of silver. Whether you are a pure stacker looking for weight or a collector tracking down the full ten-beast lineage, this Scottish icon remains a foundational cornerstone of any modern precious metal portfolio.