Depicts King Charles III’s effigy, surrounded by the Latin inscription. Engraver's initials on the neck.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX FIDEI DEFENSOR means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King, Defender of the Faith.

Engraver: Martin Jennings (MJ)

Depicts the Tudor Dragon holding a shield emblazoned with the Beaufort Portcullis, surrounded by the inscription above and date below.

Through strategic utilization of animals, the Tudor dynasty aimed to symbolically represent their virtues and strengths by invoking creatures associated with earlier royal lineages. Positioned on the left side of the Moat Bridge, the Tudor Dragon served as a representation of valor and bravery, assuming the role of a vigilant guardian poised to protect the gate.

Owen Tudor, the great-grandfather of Henry VIII, adopted the dragon as a means to highlight his Welsh heritage, tracing it back to the King of Gwynedd in the seventh century. Following his victory at the Battle of Bosworth Field, Henry VII adopted a red dragon on a white and green background as his emblem upon entering St Paul’s Cathedral.

The dragon, a mythical creature likely inspired by exotic animals such as snakes, lizards, and bats, was depicted at Hampton Court Palace with a crimson head, back, and bat-like wings against a golden underbelly, as described in historical documents.

The Tudor Dragon is depicted holding a shield adorned with the Beaufort badge, prominently featuring the Beaufort Portcullis with interwoven chains. This symbol traces the Tudor family lineage to Margaret Beaufort, the mother of Henry VII, known as the matriarch of the Tudors. Margaret Beaufort held significant influence within the royal household and played a crucial role in the political landscape of her time.

Engraver: David Lawrence