A national symbol in France, Joan of Arc (c. 1412 – May 30, 1431) was a French peasant girl who participated in the Hundred Years’ War against England. When 17 years of age, she presented herself to Charles VII, the uncrowned Dauphin of France, claiming divine guidance for her mission to expel the English from France and secure his coronation. She was granted authority to accompany a French relief army to Orléans, which was under English siege, which was quickly relieved.

After several further battles, she was present when Charles VII as crowned King in July 1429 in Reims. In May 1430, Joan was captured by Burgundian forces during a skirmish at Compiègne. She was subsequently sold to the English and faced an ecclesiastical trial in Rouen in 1431. The charges included heresy, sorcery, and wearing male attire. Following a prolonged interrogation, she was convicted and executed by burning at the stake on May 30, 1431, at the age of 19.

The coin depicts Joan in period armour, on horseback, and soaking up the adulation of the soldiers she inspired. To the left, she is depicted being burned at the stake, watched on by the clergy that sentenced her. There’s some super detail in the background, especially the castle, and overall, it’s a fine encapsulation of her short, tragic life.

This producer’s common obverse returns, an attractive design, and it comes boxed, and with a Certificate of Authenticity. This is actually the second Joan of Arc coin T & S have done, the first being part of their collaborative Legendary Warriors series, done with Pinehurst Coins. We’ll have a full Coin Series Profile up of that series later today. In the meantime, this one is available to pre-order now.