2023 SPARTA; 1 Ounce UHR Silver Proof Coin; $5 Cook Islands

Description

Metal                    Silver

Purity                   0.999

Weight                 31,1 g (1 Troy oz)

Diameter              38.61 mm

Attributes            Proof, Ultra-High Relief (Smartminting)

Mintage                1500

Packaging            Presentation Framing and CoA

The Spartans – muscle-bound, fearless warriors from ancient Greece – were renowned for their nearly invincible army and unrivalled fighting skills using long spears, swords and round shields crafted from bronze and wood have captured the imagination for centuries. The myths surrounding Sparta and its warrior society are as old as the city itself. Reputedly founded in the 9th century BC, it was co-ruled by two kings who arbitrated in times of war. Upon its victory over the rival city-state of Athens in the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BC), Sparta emerged as the most powerful state in Greece. The verso depicts “The Return of Helen on a Quadriga”. A scene from a well-known tale by the author Homer.

The reverse of the coin depicts some Spartan warriors and the beautiful Helen. At the top of the reverse is the inscription: “SPARTA” – the name of the coin.

The obverse of the coin features the Queen of Sparta with a warrior on a quadriga pulled by four horses. At the top of the obverse, the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the inscriptions: “ELIZABETH II,” “20 DOLLARS” and “COOK ISLANDS.”

The following video depicts all versions of this beautiful coin: