Wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, Lady Godiva became an icon because of the legend that she rode naked on horseback through the streets of Coventry. With her modesty only maintained through the judicious placement of her long flowing hair, she rode her horse to get remission from the oppressive taxes her husband had placed upon his tenants. Her tale has inspired much art through history.

One of the most impressive is a marble statue of Lady Godiva on a horse, currently residing in the Maidstone Museum in Kent, UK. Depicting the naked lady upon her horse, it was sculpted in the mid-19th century by renowned artist, John Thomas (yes, a naked woman was sculpted by a John Thomas – British humour…). A beautiful piece, and a worthy subject for Powercoin’s Eternal Sculptors II.

We’ve long been admirers of this range, from the debut of the first series of five coins (plus a special) back in 2016, and it returned in 2022, where it moved from a marble-effect colouring, to a metallic one. The coin, especially on the reverse face where she is mounted on horseback, is another fine example of the type, filled with fine detailing. The obverse takes us in for a closer look at the lady. The combination of black proof finish, and metallic colour, works superbly.

Boxed, with a COA, the coin has a mintage of 499 pieces, and is available to order now, with shipping in March 2024. The previous coins, Moses, and Disillusion, are still available.