Ľudmila Cvengrošová is a leading Slovak sculptor, but also a passionate traveller who has visited memorable places all over the world. Her love for art, travel and all human cultures has been materialized in the form of commemorative coins minted by the Czech Mint. The rock city of Petra, the cauldron from Gundestrup and the flying horse from Kan-su appear in relief on the first silver coin of the series, which represents the treasures of ancient civilisations.

• Ancient cities were built near rivers, which provided them with plenty of moisture. Petra, however, was built on the rocks of the Arabian Desert, where every drop is needed. Yet the Jordanian city managed to flourish, thanks to the ingenuity of the Nabataean people. These skilled traders had vast wealth, which enabled them to build many breathtaking rock houses, temples, amphitheatres and tombs. But most important of all was their ingenious irrigation system. Exhausted caravans carrying precious goods to Europe couldn't believe their eyes when they came across gardens, vineyards, fountains and even a huge swimming pool in the middle of the desert.
• Druids held a special place in Celtic culture. They served as priests, oracles, judges, poets, healers and scholars. They performed rituals using instruments ranging from sickles to harps. The cauldron of Gundestrup was one such sacred object. The richly decorated silver vessel is astonishing for its quality of craftsmanship and rich artistic decoration. The Danish treasure presents depictions of Celtic symbols, animals, ceremonies and deities - for example, the supreme god Dagda, who plunges a fallen warrior into his magical cauldron so that he can be reborn.
• In many cultures around the world, the horse is a revered symbol. No wonder - it is elegant yet strong, hardworking yet untamed. Even the ancient Chinese held it in reverence, as evidenced by a stunning bronze statue that comes from Gansu Province. This art work represents the ideal of a noble animal that is faster than the wind. The jet-powered horse is perfectly balanced, with three legs in the air and the fourth limb touching a surprised flying swallow. Anatomically, this is a true purebred breed called the Ferghana, which has surpassed all other Asian horses in its qualities and earned the nickname "heavenly".

The reverse side of the commemorative coin made by the academic sculptor Ľudmila Cvengrošová presents a detailed depiction of three landmarks. The rock city of Petra is represented by the temple known as the Treasury. From the decoration of the cauldron of Gundestrup, the artist chose the scene of rebirth. The flying horse from Gansu is depicted in all its glory - including the swallow-shaped pedestal. As the licence to issue commemorative coins of the Czech Mint is granted by the Pacific island of Niue, the obverse side bears its necessary attributes - the national emblem, the nominal value of 2 DOLLARS (NZD) and the year of issue 2023.

Our products are usually stored in protective capsules, but in this case we have made an exception. Because coins from the Treasures of Ancient Civilizations series feature high relief, we want to give you the opportunity to touch it! In addition to the antique finish, the silver coin is also covered with a special protective coating that will make sure it doesn't lose its shine…