2020-06-03 Wed

In 2019 the Isle of Man dedicated a spectacular commemorative coin to its eponymous hero, the divine warrior king Manannán. In 2020 this series is continued with Celtic warrior queen Boudica.

Boudica’s husband was the king of the Iceni tribe, who had surrendered to the occupying Roman forces. He had appointed his wife as his successor, but the patriarchally organized Roman administration wasn’t willing to accept that. Hence, they attacked and flogged Queen Boudica.

However, Boudica didn’t surrender to her fate. Under her leadership, several Celtic tribes revolted. After some initial successes, which included conquering and burning down the Roman cities of Colchester and London and virtually wiping out two legions, Boudica suffered a crucial defeat. The rebellion collapsed.

Boudica has been a figure of popular culture; to whom numerous plays, books, and films were dedicated. Boudica is a historical example of the fact that women can fight just like men if they are driven to. This great ruler, who became a symbol of unbreakable resistance against tyranny, has been commemorated with a spectacular, three-dimensional issue.

This beautiful 5 pound 3 Oz Silver coin is dedicated to the warrior queen – Boudica. The coin has a beautifully shaped as a Celtic cross and has a wonderful design. One side is dedicated to the Celtic queen Boudica: it depicts the queen with an elaborate braided hairstyle in front of a Celtic cross sitting on a wooden stump, a battle-ax in her right hand, the left on her hip, a helmet at her feet. Above, the inscription reads BOUDICA / WARRIOR QUEEN.

The other side features a portrait of aged Queen Elizabeth II, around it the inscription QUEEN ELIZABETH II ISLE OF MAN 2020 / FIVE POUNDS, in the hub of a wheel cross or Celtic cross. The arms of the cross and the circle around it are decorated with Celtic interlacing patterns.

Image Courtesy: ma-shops.com