Description

Battles That Changed History: Marathon 2018 Niue 1oz Silver

Battles That Changed History: Marathon 2018 Niue 1oz Silver: The Battle of Marathon took place in 490 BC, during the first Persian invasion of Greece. It was fought between the citizens of Athens, aided by Plataea, and a Persian force commanded by Datis and Artaphernes. The battle was the culmination of the first attempt by Persia, under King Darius I, to subjugate Greece. The Greek army decisively defeated the more numerous Persians, marking a turning point in the Greco-Persian Wars.

The Battle of Marathon was a watershed in the Greco-Persian wars, showing the Greeks that the Persians could be beaten; the eventual Greek triumph in these wars can be seen to begin at Marathon. The battle also showed the Greeks that they were able to win battles without the Spartans, as they had heavily relied on Sparta previously. This victory was largely due to the Athenians, and Marathon raised Greek esteem of them. Since the following two hundred years saw the rise of the Classical Greek civilization, which has been enduringly influential in western society, the Battle of Marathon is often seen as a pivotal moment in Mediterranean and European history. (Source: Wikipedia)

Specification

• Metal: 999 Fine Silver
• Finish: Antiqued/Coloured
• Weight: 1 troy oz
• Mintage: 5,000 each
• Diameter: 40mm
• Each comes with an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
• Year of Issue: 2018

Reverse Design

The coin is made from 1oz pure silver and features a coloured and engraved image of Athenian General Miltiades against an antique, engraved background showing Greek and Persian troops engaged in close quarters combat.

Obverse

Each coin features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Country of Issue – Niue.

Packaging

The coin and Certificate of Authenticity are encased in an antique-looking timber box.  Theme themed outer box features an illustration of the battle imposed over antiqued paper.