The first issue is a real powerhouse of Viking lore, Ragnar Lothbrok. A famed and respected warrior, who fought in Scandinavia, Northern France and in England, Lothbrok met his end when he was thrown into a pit of snakes by King Ælla of Northumbria. While Ragnar’s sons are accepted as historical, Ragnar’s exploits are a little less concrete, but his role in Norse legend is hugely important, nevertheless.

The reverse face depicts Lothbrok, sword in hand, standing by the prow of his longboat. In the background, replete with coloured sails, are another pair of longboats. A stunning design, Ragnar’s depiction is outstanding, packed solid with detail, and anatomically spot-on. The way the ship’s prow curves around with the coin, transitioning into a runic border, is exceptional.

The obverse, which we suspect will be common, is equally well done. Here, we have an image filled with Norse iconography, looking like it has been carved into a stone surface. The inscribed issue details are set in a border, and done in the style of a runic script. The packaging looks very attractive, topped with a shield motif, complete with boss. This first issue also comes with a collection folder that will hold all 12 coins. All told, a superb intro to what could be the definitive Viking coin series. Available to order now.