The Dragon & Phoenix myth is a popular theme in numismatics. Le Grand Mint elevates it to a new level with a stunning new issue

One of the most powerful relationships in Chinese mythology, the story of the Dragon & the Phoenix is one that, like most Asian myths, has many different incarnations, some involving a pearl, some not. The Dragon (male) and Phoenix (female) are often associated with the yin-yang balance between the sexes, right up to the levels of royalty. Dragons are linked with water, strength, and wisdom, while the Phoenix is associated more with fire, immortality, and loyalty.

The pairing is not an uncommon one in modern numismatics, and there have been some fine interpretations of the myth on coins, but Le Grand Mint’s latest is a stunning, dynamic take on it, drawing in some elements of Western artistic styles to produce something different from previous takes on the legend. That’s probably down to Miroslav Hric, an extremely talented Slovakian coin artist, who has done extensive work for producers like the Lithuanian Mint, Art Mint, Czech Mint and Le Grand Mint. We’re big admirers of his work here.

The design here is certainly dynamic, very dramatic, and more confrontational, with both creatures having claws extended, and facing off intently. While the dragon is depicted very much in the Chinese style, the Phoenix leans more Western, with strong shades of Bald Eagle. Perhaps an unconscious nod to the current tensions between the world’s great powers. Whatever the case, it’s beautiful, and the ultra-high relief looks very impressive in the two rendered images below. The obverse is a basic one for Niue.

The coin is struck in two ounces of fine silver, and is available in a choice of finishes. The first is a proof finish, and it’s the most numerous version, even at just 222 pieces. The other one, which is ruthenium plated, and selectively gilded, tops out at just 111 pieces. Both are obviously low mintage, and in my view at least, it’s the fortunate collector that gets their hands on one of these, whichever finish you prefer. They are presented boxed with a COA, and should be available to order now. Beautiful.