The Sower is the emblematic coin series of Monnaie de Paris. Focused on historical and numismatic events, it has commemorated since 2014 the history of the currency itself. After two years spent commemorating the anniversary of the introduction of the euro in France, the Sower is renewed and takes a leap in time.
For three years, this new theme will honour the myths and legends that have shaped the history of Gold. This first denomination adapts a part of Greek mythology by representing Midas, king of Phrygia. Turning everything he touches into solid gold. Quickly realizing that this gift offered by the god Dionysus is indeed a curse, Midas had, according to the legend, to wash himself in the river pactolus to be able to free himself from this curse.
This collector coin represents Midas, king of Phrygia. Honoured with the gift of turning everything he touches into pure gold by the god Dionysus, Midas rapidly suffered from a power that would make him infinitely rich. Unable to eat or quench his thirst, he sought comfort in the arms of his daughter, who instantly turned into a golden statue. He then implored Dionysus to take away this gift, and according to the legend had to wash himself in the river pactolus to be able to deliver himself from this curse.
On the reverse, we find a modernized adaptation of the Sower of the engraver Louis-Oscar Roty, letting appear on the drape of its dress a heraldic version of the French flag. The word "RF" is also encircled by an interlacing of hexagons reminiscent of France.