10 Euro Ireland Skellig Michael Silver Proof 2008
These 10 euro silver coins, issued by the Central Bank in collaboration with the Office of Public Works on 23 April 2008 as the first commemorative coin from Ireland, depicts the island of "Skellig Michael" 15 kilometers off the west coast of County Kerry in Ireland, amongst others, home of a world-famous medieval monastery. This steep rocky island was an important center of monastic life for Irish Christian monks for 600 years. After the beginning of restoration of the settlement in 1986, the monastery was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1996.
Ireland is taking part in the Europe Star Series since 2006, and in 2008, this series is themed "Cultural Heritage of Europe."
The obverse shows a stylized representation of the Irish harp, and "Brian Boru harp", named after the Irish High King of the 11th Century. The harp is a traditional symbol of Ireland. On the left side of the harp is the Irish word for Ireland "Eire" and on the right is the year of issue "2008".
On the back is a picture of Skellig Michael, together with the smaller island of Little Skellig (Sceilig Bheag). Michael Guilfoyle, the designer of this coin series decided to show the physical and mental aspects of the island in this design. In the middle of the coin is the island itself, with a flock of birds rising from the summit to the stars. A reference to the patron saint of Skellig, Saint Michael, the Christian saint, who led the souls of the worthy to heaven. Simultaneously the 12 stars represent the European Union.
On the left side of the coin the denomination "10 euros" and the Europe logo are inscribed. At the bottom of the coin the words "Sceilig Mhichil" can be found.
The 10 Euro silver coins are made from 925/1000 silver and have a weight of 28.8 g Their diameter is 38.61 mm.
Limited edition of 25 000 pieces