We are super excited to announce that the 2021 1oz Silver NIUE Icons Of Inspiration Galileo Coin has landed at Bleyer.
The New Zealand Mint celebrates famous historic Icons through the new series ‘Icons of Inspiration’. The first release is dedicated to the famed scientist of the 16th century, Galileo Galilei.
Who is Galileo?
Galileo is an Italian philosopher, astronomer and mathematician who made discoveries in the science of motion and astronomy. He is one of the most famed innovators in scientific history and his discoveries are fundamental to our present understanding of the physical universe.
Although he was not the first person to build a telescope as some people are led to believe, he was in fact the first person to publish his observations of astronomical objects through a telescope. Galileo discovered that the milky way had stars, that the moon had hills, that Jupiter has four moons and he helped Nicolaus Copernicus with the understanding that the Sun is at the centre of the Solar System.
In addition to astrology, Galileo made numerous discoveries in the field of physics. He studied natural forces and the laws of motion, which is one of the most important discoveries in physics and is now called kinematics.
Galileo was able to prove his discoveries through his scientific research however, they were initially ignored because they went against the worldview taught by the church. It was not until 1757 – long after his death on January 8, 1642 – that Galileo Galilei’s teachings were recognised.
The Coin Design
The coin was designed by Joel Iskowitz and features an image of Galileo holding his chin and with a pondering expression. He wears a big fur coat holding a refracting telescope in his right hand. In the foreground of the coin, is a globe and moon with the signature of the scientist below.
The reverse features an image of what is said to be a muse, the female figure stands as boldly as Liberty and Britannia in inspiration and execution. She stands with her arm extended to the sun, her gown and hair blowing in the wind, holding the seal of the nation of Niue.
Bullion from Bleyer
If you want to get your hands on the 2021 1oz Galileo Coin and wish to contact us directly, please do not hesitate to give us a call on 01769 618618 or email sales@bleyer.co.uk.