2023 POMPEII VOLCANO ERUPTION from “Fury of Nature” Series; 2 Ounce Antiqued Silver Coin; $10 Palau

Description

Metal                    Silver

Purity                   0.999 (99.9%)

Weight                 2 Troy oz (62,2 g)

Diameter              45 mm

Attributes             Antique Finish, Ultra High Relief, Colorized

Mintage                555

Packaging             Presentation Case and CoA

The ‘Pompeii Volcano Eruption’ coin is the first issue in the ‘Fury of Nature’ series. The reverse depicts the eruption and the surprised inhabitants of Pompeii running from their daily practices. On the obverse one can see the ruins of today. This coin is struck using the enhanced Smartminting©️ technology which results in stunning ultra-high relief on both sides.

The reverse shows the city of ancient Pompeii with the erupting Vesuvius volcano in the background. The volcano is partially colored. Part of the temple of Jupiter is already damaged by falling stones and inhabitants of Pompeii are running to save their lives. This depiction embodies the surprise that caught them and, in the end, buried them all alive.

The obverse side of the coin depicts the current archeological site of Pompeii with in the background again the Vesuvius. On the left is a well-preserved Roman statue. At the bottom a colorful fresco from one of the Roman villas of Pompeii. The Coat of Arms of Palau is inserted on the top with the inscriptions: “REPUBLIC OF PALAU” and “10 DOLLARS” plus “2023” at the bottom.

Background information

Pompeii was an ancient Roman city near today’s Naples built on a lava plateau from ancient eruptions of the Vesuvius volcano about 8 kilometers away. Long before, in the 8th century BC, settlements were already founded in the area. Phoenicians and Greek used the harbor for trade but during the centuries Pompeii was loyal to Rome. It grew into a large wealthy town with around 11000 inhabitants during the Roman times until 79 AD.

In 79 AD Mount Vesuvius erupted after several earthquakes a decade earlier. It erupted with so much gas, ash and stones that the surrounding villages didn’t have any time to evacuate. Pompeii, but also Herculaneum, got buried under a 4-to-6-meter layer of ash and stones. All the public buildings, lavish private houses, temples and more were preserved very well. Organic remains were surrounded by ash as well but decayed over time forming voids in the lava. Archeologist used these voids as molds to make plaster casts of wooden objects, humans and more. After many excavations today the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Even today, excavations are taking place and new discoveries are made.