Valkyries: Icons of Germanic Mythology

Published on 12.03.2024 in News

Valkyries, legendary figures from Germanic mythology, epitomize otherworldly beauty. These divine warriors, daughters of Odin – the god associated with war, wisdom, and death – and Frigg, the goddess embodying love and fertility, hold a pivotal role in their lore. Their name, derived from Old Norse “valkyrja”, translates to “chooser of the slain”, underlining their solemn duty.

Tasked with a grave responsibility, Valkyries select valorous heroes from the battlefield’s fallen and guide them to Valhalla. This majestic hall is the eternal abode for warriors, where they revel in feasting and combat. It’s believed that Valkyries not only influenced the fate of battles by determining who lived or died but also swayed the war’s outcome through their choices.

Embodied as striking, powerful, and autonomous, Valkyries are the very essence of femininity. Their depiction as stunning women endowed with divine prowess, soaring across the skies on their splendid mounts to retrieve the deceased, emphasizes their bravery and strength. These warrior maidens frequently feature in Germanic myths and sagas as independent entities, capable of intervening on behalf of both deities and mortals. Their influence was considered both a strategic advantage and moral support in mythical confrontations.

Hildegard, a guardian of humanity, depicted with a Germanic spear and a shield bearing Fenrir the wolf’s image.

Unveiling the Mystique of Germanic Female Warriors

In a tribute to these formidable figures, Germania Mint introduces the third installment in its Valkyries coin series. The inaugural coin featured Hildegard, a guardian of humanity, depicted with a Germanic spear and a shield bearing Fenrir the wolf’s image. Her armor is adorned with the Algiz rune, signifying protection, security, and support. A wolf, emblematic of intelligence and cunning, accompanies her, reinforcing the victory theme.

Following Hildegard, the series celebrated Ostara, embodying the triumph of life over death, with deer and hare as her companions – symbols of abundance and renewal. Legend has it that Ostara, encountering a wounded bird amidst snow, transformed it into a hare to endure the cold, a tale that highlights her compassionate nature. Her attire features the Berkanan rune, associated with vitality, fertility, and beauty.

Ostara, goddess of the victory of life over death, is accompanied by a deer and a hare, symbols of fertility.

The latest coin honors Solveig, the goddess of the sun, marking the dawn of summer and new beginnings. A bear, known for its bravery and strength, stands by her side. She is graced with the Sowilo Rune, a beacon of warmth and energy, symbolizing rebirth in splendor.

Solveig, depicted as a Sun goddess, stands next to her fearless bear companion.

Commitment to Excellence

The reverse side of the Valkyries series showcases an innovative design, blending Germania Mint’s iconic double-headed eagle with new Germanic runes and the respective goddess’s animal emblem, all within a shield that also notes the issue year, metal composition, and denomination.

Designed by Mateusz Frąckowiak, the series comprises three silver coins: 1 oz, 1 oz ennobled, and 2 oz high relief, each accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The 2 oz version’s packaging stands out, serving as a minimalist display case to showcase the coin’s beauty.

The reverse side of the Valkyries series showcases an innovative design, blending Germania Mint's iconic double-headed eagle with new Germanic runes and the respective goddess's animal emblem.

Locate an Authorized Distributor

We urge enthusiasts to acquire these coins exclusively from certified sources. A comprehensive list of authorized distributors is available at https://germaniamint.com/retail.

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