Silver Ounce 2018 Pegasus, Proof, 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 internationally popular one troy ounce (1oz) of silver size. Some of these - such as this coin - were 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 part of the Pegasus range of bullion coins issued by the Pobjoy Mint under the jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands.

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.

Throughout his life, Pegasus remained a mysterious creature that symbolised divine inspiration or the journey to heaven. As a reward for his service and loyalty, Zeus honoured him with a special kind of immortality, turning him into a constellation on the last day of his life.