Fabergé Artistry of Henrik Wigström Featured in Europa Star Series

February 13, 2012 By Michael Alexander Leave a Comment

The Mint of Finland have unveiled (3^rd February) their latest collector coin which is issued as part of the EUROPA star series. The theme of this year’s coins is European artists, and the Finnish contribution to this series features the artistry of Henrik Wigström (1862 – 1923) who went on to become one of the most noted craftsman in the Fabergé jewelry company in St. Petersburg.

Wigström, who was primarily known for his “Egg” creations, these unique bejeweled items became a firm favorite of the Russian Imperial family. They were exchanged by senior members of the court of St. Petersburg as gifts for special occasions and many of these exquisite golden and intricately enameled eggs are signed on the inside shell by Wigström himself. He went on to become the Head Goldsmith of Fabergé and held that position for 15 years until the Russian Revolution forced the closure of this famous workshop.

The obverse side of the coin bears an image of one of the most famous creations of Wigström, that of the Coronation Easter Egg, still unfinished, which was eventually given to the Czarina Alexandra by Nicholas II in 1897. The reverse side depicts a swan, in homage to another example of Wigström’s exquisite workmanship, the “Swan” Easter egg. The surprise within the egg is a swan made of platinum, gold and precious stones, swimming on a lake of aquamarine. The denomination and year of issue “2012” is also included on the reverse.

Designed by sculptor Pertti Mäkinen, (designer of the 1 €URO circulation coin) this coin is sure to become a favorite with Finnish coin collectors for the beautiful and elaborate design depicted.

The coin has a denomination of 10 €URO and is struck in proof quality in sterling silver with a weight of 17 grams and a diameter of 33 mm. The coin goes on sale on the 20^th February through their website and in Mint of Finland retail shops.

For more information about this and other coins offered by the Mint, please visit their website at: http://www.suomenrahapaja.fi/eng/commemorative-and-collector-coins/henrik-wigstrom-and-european-artists#

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