Fine Silver Proof The Royals (Dogs) - Collie

Cocker Spaniel

In 1992 the Royal series continues with another famous dog - The Cocker Spaniel - following from the Corgi in 1991. It is exactly 100 years (130 years, as of 2022) since this breed became a recognised breed, a worthy descendant of a larger ancestor - The English Springer Spaniel. Although a smaller animal, the cocker Spaniel has an uncanny ability to flush game birds from cover, particularly the woodcock, and hence the epithet 'cocker'.

Long Haired Duschand

Its name is the German for 'Badgerhound' and it was originally used as a hunting dog., to track down animals that had gone to ground, it also had to be fierce enough to attack the hunter's quarry. Now, however, it is very popular as a pet and is renowned as an affectionate companion.

Pekingese

Reversed as a sacred animal in Imperial China, the Pekingese - a diminutive, but handsome dog - was only revealed to Western eyes about 100 years ago. Since then, the breed has become popular with dog lovers all over the world. As 1994 was the Lunar Year of the Dog, the Chinese characters for this were placed on the coin.

Corgi

'Corgi' means 'dwarf dog' in Welsh and since the 11th Century these hardy little animals - small in stature but big in heart - have earned their keep as herders, nipping at the hooves of cattle to keep them inline, and gaining the classification 'heelers'.

Bulldog

Orginally bred for its ferocity in the cruel sport bear baiting, the Bulldog has since become known for its gentle and loyal nature. The Bulldog has also come to symbolise the British character, particularly in times of crisis, with its dogged determination and indomitable spirit.

Collie

The Collie is undoubtedly a particularly handsome breed, whose appearance is well captured on this coin design. There are several breeds of Collie and this coin depicts the Rough Collie, which there are a number of different types - the Sable, the Tricolour and the rare Blue Merle.
The breed was originally used mainly as a sheep dog in the Scottish Highlands, but became widely popular as a domestic pet when Queen Victoria, brought one back to England and started a trend which, since then, has gone from strength to strength.