Palladium Ounce 2016 Pegasus and Goddess Athena, Coin from British Virgin Islands - detailed information

The British overseas territory of the Virgin Islands has used the United States Dollar as its currency since 1959 - even before it gained autonomy in 1967. However, the territory has also authorised a number of mints to issue non-circulating and bullion coins under its name, denominated in British Virgin Islands Dollars. These do not circulate as regular currency, and are targeted at collectors or investors in precious metals.

One of the formats used for the purpose is the one troy ounce (1oz) of palladium size. These coins are released at prices much higher than the intrinsic value of the metal, so are considered Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT), and not bullion.

This coin is the first release in the Pegasus range of bullion coins issued by the Pobjoy Mint under the jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands. Unlike later coins in the series, it also depicts the Ancient Greek goddess Athena.

Pegasus is one of the best-known creatures in Ancient Greek mythology. This winged horse is usually depicted as white in color and was always considered a good-hearted and gentle animal.

The story of Pegasus begins when Perseus is sent to kill one of the three Gorgons, Medusa, who had writhing snakes instead of hair. It was said that anyone unfortunate enough to gaze on her face would turn to stone. The god Hermes and the goddess Athena came to aid Perseus with special gifts, including a shield which Perseus used as a mirror so he did not look directly at Medusa. When Perseus beheaded Medusa, it is said that Pegasus was born from the blood of the Gorgon. Many wanted to capture Pegasus, but no one could figure out how to tame such a magnificent creature.

Athena is an important goddess of a number of things - wisdom, law and justice, strength, mathematics, strategy and many others. She is known for her skill in tactical warfare and is often seen in company of other companions.