BEHIND THE CRAFT
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Behind the Craft - Faerie Queene Una

First published in 1590, Edmund Spenser’s epic poem The Faerie Queene is a classic work of medieval English literature.

At over 36,000 lines long, its six books contain one of the longest poems in the English language, believed to be an allegory for the life of Queen Elizabeth I.

East India Company ‘Faerie Queene’ precious metal coin collection sees Spenser’s epic medieval tale of honour, chivalry, love and virtue reimagined by one of the world’s leading coin designers, Joel Iskowitz, whose series of coin designs captures the drama and heroism of Book One of Spenser’s epic.

FG23FULSP5OZ

2023 Una & Lion Faerie Queene 5oz Silver Proof Coin

ONLY 500 COINS WORLDWIDE

East India Company Collections’ epic series ‘The Faerie Queene’ continues with the legendary story of Una and the Lion.

The East India Company - Collections

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Book One tells the story of The Redcrosse Knight and the quest he is given by Queen Gloriana, the Queene of Faerie Land; to rescue the Lady Una’s parents from the captivity of an evil dragon. Redcrosse and Una set out on their journey together but soon became separated when a sorcerer’s spell bewitched Redcrosse and he left Una behind, all alone.
• The second coin in our Faerie Queene series
• Limited edition of just 500 coins worldwide
• Five ounces of sparkling 0.999 fine silver
• Impressive 65mm diameter
• Exclusive new design by the celebrated artist Joel Iskowitz
• Struck to our finest Proof quality
• Presented in a luxury display case with certificate of authenticity

Product Detail

Book One tells the story of The Redcrosse Knight and the quest he is given by Queen Gloriana, the Queene of Faerie Land; to rescue the Lady Una’s parents from the captivity of an evil dragon. Redcrosse and Una set out on their journey together but soon became separated when a sorcerer’s spell bewitched Redcrosse and he left Una behind, all alone.
• The second coin in our Faerie Queene series
• Limited edition of just 500 coins worldwide
• Five ounces of sparkling 0.999 fine silver
• Impressive 65mm diameter
• Exclusive new design by the celebrated artist Joel Iskowitz
• Struck to our finest Proof quality
• Presented in a luxury display case with certificate of authenticity

Specification

  • Alloy

    Fine Silver - 999Ag

  • Denomination

    £5

  • Weight

    5oz

  • Authority

    St Helena

  • Diameter

    65mm

  • Edge

    Milled

  • Issue limit

    500

  • Total Mintage

    500

Stories

Story of the Faerie Queene

Bereft and quite alone, Una took shelter in shaded woodland, out of sight of anyone who might be passing.

Her peace was shattered when a mighty lion saw the defenceless princess and lept at her with hungry rage. But as he got closer to Una he became calmed by her beauty and innocence, and instead of attacking her he kissed her weary feet and licked her hands to soothe her.

As Una rose to continue her quest the lion would not leave her side, striding proudly alongside her as her faithful guardian and protector.
“Still when she slept, he kept both watch and ward,
And when she wakt, he waited diligent,
With humble service to her will prepard:"

However, they soon encountered the knight Sansloy on a quest for vengeance for the death of his friend at the hands of Redcrosse. Sansoy attacked and the lion leapt to Una’s defense, but he was no match for a knight as skilled and powerful as Sansloy, who thrust his sword into the lion’s heart. With one final deafening roar, the lion died, and Una was alone once more.

This second coin in our popular Faerie Queene series captures a peaceful moment between the innocent Una and her mighty companion the lion in this classical design by the celebrated coin and medal artist Joel Iskowitz.

This 5oz silver coin is presented in a bespoke display case with a Certificate of Authenticity. Its design reflects the illustrative storytelling of this period in history, every detail perfectly enhanced by our finest Proof quality finish.

  • FAQ

    What is the difference between maximum mintage and issue limit?
    Maximum mintage is the total number of individuals coins which will be struck, this includes coins presented is sets. The Issue limit refers to the number of coins which will be sold in the specific presentation.

    What if the maximum mintage and issue limit is the same?
    This means the coin will only be available in the presentation shown and will not be issued in any other way.

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  • Delivery & Returns

    UK Standard Delivery: £9.95
    See our delivery page for more information and overseas delivery.

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