10 euro – The Chamomile

Like all the coins in The Language of Flowers series, The Chamomile features an imprint of real flowers. Faithful to the tiniest detail, they are pressed using a special technique that captures them in their natural state. In the language of flowers, chamomile signifies ‘strength in difficult situations’ and ‘energy in adversity”. This makes perfect sense given chamomile’s numerous healing and magical properties, uplifting scent and delightful daisy-like flowers. Known to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans and used for centuries to heal a wide range of maladies, chamomile was believed by the Anglo-Saxons to be one of nine sacred herbs with special powers to fend off illness and evil. This unassuming yet powerful herb has a history of use in magic spells for peace, purification, protection and self-esteem. It is also said to have magical abilities to attract luck, love and prosperity and to release the pain of lost love and help people let go of grudges, guilt and anger. Humans are not alone in enjoying the many benefits of chamomile, as the beautifully scented, easy-growing herb is also known as the ‘plant doctor’ and if placed next to ailing or weak plants is thought to help strengthen them. Next to an ornamental side image of chamomiles, which is stylishly printed in colour, the coin’s reverse features imprints of real chamomiles in bloom. On the coin’s obverse, chamomile flowers adorn the hair of a determined-looking young woman who symbolises vitality. On her shoulder sits a phoenix, a mythical bird that has stood for renewal and rebirth since ancient times. Beyond her the silhouette of a spear is visible.