Central Bank of Ireland launches Saint Brigid collector coin to commemorate Ireland’s famous saint

The Central Bank of Ireland will launch a limited edition €15 collector coin today (26 June) to commemorate Saint Brigid, one of Ireland’s best-known saints.

Deputy Governor Sharon Donnery will launch the silver proof coin in Solas Bhríde in Co Kildare later today. The coin goes on sale at 2pm from www.collectorcoins.ie and will retail at €65. The coin has an issue limit of 2,000.

Designed by Irish artist Mary Gregoriy, the coin features a young Brigid, her cape, and the St. Brigid’s Cross. The artist wanted to combine the myth with the woman throughout the design. Above her head is the guiding star of a St. Brigid’s Cross and on her sleeve, she wears an oak leaf – to symbolize Kildare and her monastery founded there.

Deputy Governor Sharon Donnery said: “We are very proud, in the year that marks 1,500 years since her passing, to issue this €15 St. Brigid collector coin to recognise one of our best-known saints.

“As we all know, tradition says that St. Brigid established a monastery in the town, ultimately giving Cill Dara its name, so it is only fitting we launch the coin commemorating her in this beautiful location in Kildare today.

“Many stories and myths surround St. Brigid, but much of what we are told highlights her core values – helping the poor, striving for peace and a more just world.

“A strong woman, dedicated to serving the people and to protecting nature, her life, her work, her legacy not only remains relevant today, but remains an inspiration.

“For some it will be her spirituality, her environmentalism, or her role as peacemaker that provides this inspiration.

“For others it will be her courage, in embracing and advocating change in a time of major uncertainty and transition in Ireland.

“For me it is her public service – for indeed she served the public – and her leadership – for she was a leader at a time when there were few women leaders – that stand out.

“And as we honour St. Brigid, this commemorative coin also presents an opportunity to remember the role that she and Irish women have played in our history, our culture and society. In doing this it is also an opportunity to take stock, as well as to think what lessons we can take with us to the future.”

ENDS

Editors Notes

• Irish artist Mary Gregoriy has designed several commemorative coins, including the Luke Kelly coin.
• Every year the Central Bank issues a number of collector coin products, on behalf of the Minister for Finance. The Central Bank invites public submissions in relation to the themes.
• Proof coins are collectable coins and are not intended for general circulation. They are minted using specially polished dies and blanks that give them a mirror-like finish. . The defined, intricate and shiny appearance of proof coins gives them their collectable quality.