Ireland celebrates the remarkable legacy of St. Brigid of Kildare with a stunning 2024 Proof €15 coin crafted from .925 fine silver. This limited-edition coin commemorates 1,500 years since her passing and reflects her enduring influence on Irish culture and spirituality. Struck by the Royal Dutch Mint, the coin symbolizes St. Brigid’s values and historical significance, encapsulating her lasting impact on Ireland and beyond.
The Life of St. Brigid
Humble Beginnings
St. Brigid was born around A.D. 450 into contrasting worlds—her father was a chieftain, and her mother, a slave. Despite these origins, she rose to become a spiritual leader dedicated to helping others. As a teenager, she chose to become a nun, using her faith as a platform to aid the poor and champion peace.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Proof €15 Commemorative Coin |
| Year of Issue | 2024 |
| Commemorates | 1,500th Anniversary of St. Brigid’s Death |
| Minting Authority | Royal Dutch Mint |
| Mintage Limit | 2,000 pieces |
| Material | .925 Fine Silver |
| Weight | 28.28 grams |
| Diameter | 38.61 millimeters |
| Obverse Design | Classic Irish harp |
| Reverse Design | St. Brigid holding a flaming bowl, oak leaf, and cross |
| Packaging | Capsule and box with certificate of authenticity |
| Price | Varies by retailer, often sold at a premium due to limited mintage |
Founding a Groundbreaking Monastery
Around A.D. 480, St. Brigid founded Ireland’s first dual-gender monastery in Kildare, a site named Cill Dara, meaning “Church of Oak.” Built near a giant oak tree, this monastery was a place of worship and community for both men and women—an innovative concept at the time. The oak leaf and St. Brigid’s cross are now synonymous with Kildare.
Stories and Myths Surrounding St. Brigid
A Beacon of Compassion
St. Brigid is remembered for her devotion to the poor, her pursuit of peace, and her advocacy for justice. She boldly challenged societal norms, particularly the traditional roles of women, inspiring many to follow in her footsteps.
Spreading Her Message Across Europe
During the Middle Ages, her life and teachings motivated monks and scholars to travel beyond Ireland, sharing her values throughout Britain and Europe. Her influence grew so widespread that she was at times more famous than St. Patrick.
The 2024 Proof €15 Coin
Meaningful Imagery
The obverse of the coin features the classic Irish harp, a symbol of Ireland’s heritage. The reverse showcases St. Brigid holding a flaming bowl, referencing a pre-Christian fire tradition she reportedly preserved. She is also depicted with a staff, an oak leaf, and her iconic cross, tying her legacy to County Kildare.
Specifications
- Composition: .925 fine silver
- Weight: 28.28 grams
- Diameter: 38.61 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 2,000 pieces
- Packaging: Capsule and box with a certificate of authenticity
St. Brigid’s Lasting Legacy
St. Brigid’s message of compassion, equality, and social justice remains relevant even 1,500 years after her death. This coin serves as a tribute to her timeless values and the pivotal role she played in Irish history.
Conclusion
The 2024 Proof €15 coin is more than just a collectible item; it is a tribute to the life and legacy of St. Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland’s most revered figures. Celebrating 1,500 years since her death, this limited-edition silver coin honors her dedication to helping the poor, promoting peace, and challenging traditional societal roles. With its intricate design, featuring symbols like the Irish harp, oak leaf, and St. Brigid’s cross, the coin reflects her lasting influence on Irish culture and beyond.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a collector, or someone who values the ongoing message of St. Brigid, this coin serves as a beautiful reminder of her impact. With only 2,000 pieces available, it is a rare and meaningful way to connect with Ireland’s spiritual heritage. The 2024 Proof €15 coin is not just a valuable addition to any collection—it’s a piece of history that carries forward St. Brigid’s timeless message of compassion, equality, and faith.
FAQs
1. What is the 2024 Proof €15 coin?
The 2024 Proof €15 coin is a limited-edition silver coin minted by the Royal Dutch Mint to commemorate the life and legacy of St. Brigid of Kildare, marking the 1,500th anniversary of her death.
2. Why is St. Brigid so important to Irish history?
St. Brigid is one of Ireland’s patron saints, known for her compassion, advocacy for women, and establishment of a groundbreaking monastery in Kildare. Her influence spread across Europe, and her teachings continue to inspire people today.
3. What symbols are featured on the coin?
The coin features several symbols tied to St. Brigid’s legacy, including the Irish harp, her flaming bowl, an oak leaf, and her cross. These represent her connection to Ireland and her impact on both religious and cultural traditions.
4. How much does the 2024 Proof €15 coin cost?
The price of the coin varies depending on where it is sold. As it is a limited-edition collectible item, it is often sold at a premium price.
5. How many coins were made?
The mintage limit for the 2024 Proof €15 coin is 2,000 pieces. This makes it a rare and valuable collector’s item.