Along with Mozart, Beethoven is a byword for musical genius. While his exact birthdate is not known, he was baptised on 17th December 1770, so 2020 is considered his 250th anniversary. His first major orchestral work premiered in 1800 and he died just 27 years later, leaving behind a highly regarded body of music, even more impressive in light of his increasing deafness – losing his hearing completely by 1814.

The Helvetic Mint is issuing a new 1oz proof silver coin in celebration of the anniversary with a mintage of just 500 pieces. It uses an Alex Vorodeyez design penned for a bullion round produced by Euromint (also in gold). This time however, it carries legal tender status in Niue. It’s actually a very nice design with a super profile portrait of the man done in a style that seems to ape sculpture of his time. The background is a mix of period architecture overlaid with musical notation. It’s all very atmospheric and a nice celebration of the composers life and work. Available exclusively from Euromint, although we can’t see it there yet.

LINKS: EUROMINT BULLION ROUND VERSION