Introduction
The 2023 Merlin 1oz Gold Bullion Coin, manufactured by the prestigious Royal Mint, are a fascinating fusion of historical mythology and precious metals. The coins are a key component of the acclaimed Myths and Legends series, which pays tribute to the illustrious characters in British folklore. This collection also has the distinctive honor of being the first series in the King Arthur narrative to proudly display the portrait of King Charles III on the obverse side.
Merlin, the character central to this coin's design, is an iconic figure in Arthurian legend. Known as a powerful sorcerer and revered advisor to King Arthur, Merlin's intriguing origins are rooted in mythology. Legend has it that he was the offspring of a mortal woman and a demon father, a lineage that imbued him with potent magical powers.
This emblematic figure is portrayed on the coin holding a magical stave and a golden sickle. These tools are emblematic of his mystical prowess, used for harvesting mistletoe within hallowed groves. Complementing Merlin's portrayal, an owl, a universal symbol of wisdom, rests upon his shoulder. The backdrop features the Glastonbury Tor, widely believed to be the real-world inspiration for the mythical island of Avalon, thereby immersing the coin’s holder in the rich tapestry of Arthurian lore.
The 2023 Merlin 1oz Gold Bullion Coin is made of 999.9 pure gold that has been revered since ancient times for its rarity, beauty, and resilience. Gold is highly resistant to tarnish and corrosion, and has a rich, warm color that has made it a desirable medium for crafting jewelry, coins, and artifacts for thousands of years. Gold bullion is also a hedge against inflation and uncertainty, as it tends to retain its value over time. This makes gold coins like these not only aesthetically pleasing but also a prudent investment.
Each of these 1oz Merlin gold coins is meticulously crafted to The Royal Mint's stringent bullion standard, containing one troy ounce (equivalent to 31.1035g) of 24-carat gold, recognized for its supreme purity of 999.9. Weighing 31.1g and with a diameter of 32.69mm, the coins have a face value of £100. The numismatic and gold value, combined with the exemption from both Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and VAT for UK residents makes these bullion coins an attractive and potentially investment.