Description
A timeless British legend meets the best of British craftsmanship as the story of Merlin inspires our next myths and legend bullion collection.
The fifth coin in our second Myths and Legends second bullion series featuresĀ Merlin, a central figure in Arthurian legend and popularly known as King Arthurās adviser, magician and prophet, is the second mythical character to feature in our bullion three-coin series inspired by the legend of King Arthur.
Created by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his pseudo-historical workĀ Historia Regum BritanniaeĀ (The History of the Kings of Britain),Ā Merlin is associated with Arthurās father, Uther Pendragon, rather than the legendary king. Growing in popularity through the Middle Ages, Merlin became associated with King Arthur over time, notably in American literature and popular culture.
Artist and illustrator David Lawrence has depicted the figure of Merlin with Glastonbury in the background, which is rumoured to be the inspiration for the mystical isle of Avalon. An owl sits on Merlinās shoulder, symbolising his knowledge and wisdom. He clutches a magical stave, and a golden sickle is attached to his belt, which he uses for cutting mistletoe in the sacred grove.
Struck in 999.9 fine silver, each coin is finished to The Royal Mintās bullion standard.