Pheidippides’ Marathon Run Silver Proof Coin
Pheidippides' Marathon Run Silver Proof Coin - click to enlarge
General Coin Information
The Perth Mint has issued a coin celebrating an event that occurred 2,500 years ago, but in a way, still honored today. The Pheidippides' Marathon Run 1 oz Silver Proof Coin marks what many consider to be source of the marathon run, which many participate in today.
After a fierce battle was won by the Greeks over the Persians at Marathon Bay, a messenger was sent to relay the news to the people of Athens. Chosen for this special mission was Pheidippides, and he left for the 26 mile journey. Legends states that Pheidippides ran the entire way and exclaimed "Nenikhkamen" (we have won) once he had arrived. Unfortunately, after his outburst, he collapsed and died.
This is the basis that the Olympic committee used to designate a new long-distance running event in 1896, calling it the Marathon. It has been run since by many.
The proof coin celebrating this event of 2,500 years ago is minted from 1 ounce of 99.9% pure silver. It is issued as legal tender of Tuvalu with a face value of $1. The proof coin will ship in a presentation case with an illustrated shipper and include a numbered Certificate of Authenticity showing the maximum mintage of 5,000.
If available, this silver proof coin may be purchased online from the following Perth Mint page:
Pheidippides' Marathon Run Silver Proof Coin
Obverse Design
The obverse shows Raphael Maklouf's effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Also included are the inscriptions "Queen Elizabeth II", "Tuvalu", "2010" and "1 Dollar".
Reverse Design
The reverse shows a triumphant but exhausted Pheidippides' running into Athens with his arm held high proclaiming the news "nenikhkamen" (we have won) before collapsing and dying. Over his head is a scroll containing his exclamation "Nenikhkamen" while underneath is "Pheidippides' Marathon Run 2,500th Anniversary 490BC-2010". The Perth Mint's historic 'P' mintmark is also present.
Pheidippides' Marathon Run Coin Specifications
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Mint: Perth Mint of Australia |
US $149.03
