PMC WEEK: Norse god Odin and his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, get the Bi-Metal Plus treatment

Precious Metal Collectors Week continues with this gorgeous Norse mythology themed release in the producers Bi-Metal Plus format, this time with 2ozs silver over 11.5 ozs of copper. Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, is the subject of choice and the vision of Odin charging into battle on horseback is one of the best Viking coins we’ve seen to date.

There’s so much packed into this coin that even its 80 mm diameter struggles to contain it. Odins ravens are following him, and there are nods to all nine realms in the background around the edge. Yggdrasil, the famed ‘World Tree’ of Norse mythology is wrapped into and around everything. Everywhere you look, there’s something new to see.

The obverse carries a stylised depiction of Sleipnir in the Norse style, and of Yggdrasil. It’s a neat contrast to the more realistic style (well, as realistic as an eight-legged horse gets…) and is a fine looking piece in its own right. An impressive release, it’s hard to imagine a better looking numismatic depiction of this legendary horse and its iconic rider. Available now.

MINTS DESCRIPTION

Said to be the most powerful steed to exist in Norse mythology, Sleipnir was born from unusual and extraordinary circumstances. In order to prevent the master of Svadilfari, the magical horse, from completing the wall around Asgard and earning the hand of Goddess Freya, Loki lured Svadilfari into mating. Loki transformed into a beautiful mare, successfully drawing Svadilfari away from his master, who eventually could not complete his mission without the help of his magical horse. Bred from a god and a giant’s stallion, Sleipnir was thus born with the ability to transcend the nine realms of the world, his eight legs long and strong to cover ground and paddle in the water, while his winged body took flight with ease. Sleipnir was gifted by Loki to Odin, the King of the Aesir gods. He accompanied Odin through all his battles and journeys, taking him across the nine realms at an incomparable speed. Such was Sleipnir’s power and strength that he was claimed to be the best amongst horses with no equal.

Here Odin sits on the back of Sleipnir, a single fist holding his reins while Sleipnir gallops ahead determinedly. The two present an impressive sight as they ride into battle with no fear. Sleipnir’s hooves are shaped with motion and fluidity against an intricate background of the nine realms. Looking closely near the edges, each of the nine is represented with fine artistry from Midgard all through to Helheim, with elements such as skulls, neolithic caves, and frozen lakes each being representative of different realms. Thin but severe lightning bolts run across the surface, bringing together Odin’s ability to wield lightning and the sheer speed of Sleipnir as they flash through the nine realms.