Saint Brigid of Kildare Silver Coin
In 2024, Ireland issued a commemorative silver coin to honour Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of the country’s most revered figures. Saint Brigid is celebrated for her charitable works, leadership, and the founding of the Saint Brigid of Kildare Monastery, which became a spiritual and cultural centre in medieval Ireland. The Saint Brigid of Kildare silver coin marks the 1,500th anniversary of her death, a fitting tribute to her lasting influence on Irish history and Christianity.
The design of the coin features an elegant portrait of Saint Brigid, portrayed as a figure of grace and strength. Her image is based on the famous depiction of her as a nun with a bishop’s staff, symbolizing her role as both a religious leader and a founder. Surrounding her image is the inscription “Saint Brigid of Kildare,” clearly linking the coin to the celebrated saint. The reverse side of the coin is strikingly simple yet meaningful, with the Irish harp, the symbol of Ireland, in the centre. This representation reinforces the national pride associated with Saint Brigid’s legacy.
Ireland’s commemorative Saint Brigid of Kildare silver coin was released in 2024
The coin is struck in .925 sterling silver, a high-quality material that gives it a brilliant finish, reflecting the craftsmanship of the Royal Dutch Mint, which is responsible for producing this special edition. With a diameter of 38.61 millimetres and a weight of 28.28 grams, the coin offers a substantial feel in hand, showcasing both its quality and commemorative nature. The coin carries a face value of 15 euros, and only 2,000 pieces have been minted, making it a limited and highly collectible item.
Not only is this coin a tribute to Saint Brigid, but it also highlights Ireland’s rich history of minting coins to honour its cultural icons. The coin’s release is timed to coincide with the feast day of Saint Brigid, celebrated on February 1st, making it a perfect addition to the collection of numismatists and those with an interest in Irish heritage.
The design of the coin was carefully considered to reflect both Saint Brigid’s spiritual significance and her profound connection to Irish history. Her canonization as a saint in the sixth century underscores her importance, and the coin acts as a reminder of her enduring legacy in both religious and cultural contexts.
Collectors and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate this beautiful and meaningful addition to the collection of Irish commemorative coins. It serves as a fitting tribute to a saint who shaped Irish Christianity and continues to inspire devotion today.
