Mennica Polska draws on one of the most spectacular mythical symbols of heroism – Achilles’ Shield – and transforms it into a unique work of contemporary numismatics. The four-ounce silver coin impresses with its grandeur, detail and unique, convex form. Collectors can purchase it from 5 May this year.

The ‘Shield of Achilles’ coin is a monumental (measuring 90 millimetres in diameter) interpretation of the world described in Homer’s ‘Iliad’ – one of the most important works of ancient literature. The composition, crafted from four ounces of silver, is distinguished by its ultra-high relief, which gives it exceptional depth and a sculptural character, whilst its semi-circular form evokes the shape of the legendary shield.

A tale of the world’s complexity

The reverse of the coin depicts a multi-layered narrative in which various aspects of human life and the world order intertwine. At the centre lies the cosmos – a symbol of an unchanging order, against which human destinies remain but a fragment of a greater whole. The subsequent scenes depict both the harmony of social life and its dramatic contrasts: from the city of peace, where law and ritual organise daily life, to the city of war, full of tension, violence and chaos.

Alongside these opposites, scenes of labour, nature and community appear – the toil of farming, the harvest, a vineyard teeming with life, and pastoral landscapes where man encounters forces greater than himself. The whole is complemented by the motif of dance and art, an expression of harmony and culture, whilst Okeanos, which concludes the composition, symbolically marks the boundaries of the world.

Depth of form, precision of craftsmanship

The coin was produced using advanced minting technologies, which have achieved an ultra-high relief effect and extraordinary precision in every detail. The finishing techniques used, including 24-carat gilding and patination, enhance the contrast and emphasise the three-dimensionality of the composition, making the coin a piece of exceptional collectable value.

– Achilles’ Shield is one of the most evocative depictions of the world in the history of ancient literature. Transferring the vision depicted on the shield to a coin required a combination of high artistic craftsmanship and advanced technology. “We wanted to create a work that not only delights with its form, but also tells a universal story about humanity and its place in the universe,” says Łukasz Karda, Director of Production Preparation at Mennica Polska.

This is not the first time Mennica Polska has drawn on Greek mythology. Coins have previously been produced featuring, amongst others, Triton, Athena, Themis, Minerva and the Hesperides.

“Achilles’ Shield” is yet another example of how Mennica Polska combines cultural heritage with a modern approach to numismatics, creating designs of high artistic and collectible value. The coin was unveiled on 5 May 2026.