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The “Goddesses: Nerthus” 2 oz .9999 fine silver cast bar is a distinctive bullion piece that combines mythological reverence with modern artisanal design. Part of the ongoing “Goddesses” silver series, this bar honors Nerthus, an ancient Germanic deity associated with earth, fertility, and peace. Her name appears in the Roman historian Tacitus’s *Germania*, where she is described as a revered goddess whose presence is carried across lands in a sacred wagon. This mythic tradition imbues the bar with a rich historical legacy, offering collectors not only a high-purity silver asset but also a tangible connection to ancient religious belief and ritual. Each cast bar is an homage to divine femininity, nature, and ancestral heritage rendered in precious metal.
The bar itself is cast rather than struck, lending it a rugged, primitive appearance that suits its thematic tribute to a goddess of nature and the earth. The casting process produces unique textures and flow lines, which are embraced as part of the aesthetic and ensure that no two bars are exactly alike. The front of the bar typically features a high-relief depiction of Nerthus, often stylized to reflect ancient artistic traditions. She may be shown standing, draped in flowing garments, possibly with symbolic elements like a wagon, plow, or wreath of wheat, representing her ties to agriculture and fertility. The engraving is deeply incised and lightly polished, creating a contrast with the bar’s otherwise matte, raw silver finish.
Surrounding the goddess's image are minimalist inscriptions: her name “Nerthus” is usually placed prominently near the top or bottom, and details such as “2 oz,” “Ag 999.9,” or “.9999 Fine Silver” are clearly indicated. The decision to produce the bar in .9999 silver—higher purity than the common .999—reflects a premium commitment to quality and makes the piece appealing to both collectors and investors. The weight and purity stamps are typically engraved directly into the cast surface rather than struck, contributing to the rustic and handmade feel. Any mint mark or logo is understated, allowing the focus to remain on the mythological artistry.
The reverse side of the bar is often left unadorned, displaying the natural cooling marks and subtle irregularities of the casting process. Some bars may bear a serial number or hallmark, either incised by hand or machine-stamped, providing an added assurance of authenticity and traceability. The unpolished reverse contrasts with the intricately detailed obverse and further reinforces the artisanal character of the piece. Though technically bullion, the Nerthus cast bar functions much like a modern medal, celebrating cultural and spiritual themes with precious metal as the canvas.
While the mint behind the “Goddesses” series is not always widely publicized, such bars are typically produced by boutique private mints that specialize in small-batch silver items. These mints often cater to a niche collector base that values thematic continuity, high-quality production, and scarcity. The mintage of Nerthus cast bars is usually quite limited—often under 2,500 or even 1,000 units worldwide—making them rare by both bullion and collectible standards. The low production figures add to their investment appeal, particularly as demand for mythological and symbolically rich silver products has grown in recent years.
Each bar is typically accompanied by a certificate of authenticity or is sold sealed in protective packaging. Some may include additional details about Nerthus and her role in Germanic mythology, enriching the ownership experience. While the bar’s surface may tone slightly over time due to the high purity of the silver and the uncoated finish, such natural aging is generally viewed positively in the collecting world, adding character and a sense of antiquity. Proper storage in dry environments or within capsules or pouches can preserve the original appearance for decades.
Nerthus is among the most enigmatic of the goddesses in early Germanic belief systems. According to Tacitus, her idol was transported in a cart across tribal lands, and during her procession, all war ceased, weapons were put aside, and peace reigned until the ritual was complete. Afterward, the goddess, her wagon, and her attendants were ceremonially cleansed in a sacred lake—after which the attendants were drowned, signifying the secrecy and sanctity of the rite. This powerful narrative of divine presence, seasonal cycles, and earthly abundance finds a modern echo in the Nerthus silver bar, transforming silver into more than metal: a medium for ancestral memory and symbolic renewal.
In terms of condition, a Nerthus 2 oz cast bar in new or Uncirculated condition should exhibit a strong strike on the obverse design, free of tarnish, dents, or noticeable blemishes. Due to the nature of cast silver, some unevenness and minor surface variations are expected and do not detract from its value. These elements are integral to the casting process and often enhance the bar’s visual appeal, setting it apart from mass-produced bullion. The edges should be cleanly formed, and the weight accurate within a small tolerance. Bars stored in original mint packaging are considered optimal for maintaining long-term value.
Collectors of this piece are often drawn to it for a variety of reasons. Some are bullion investors seeking limited-mintage silver with thematic appeal. Others are mythology enthusiasts who value the tangible expression of ancient stories. Still others are art lovers who appreciate the fusion of sculpture and metal in a compact, tactile format. Regardless of motivation, the Goddesses: Nerthus cast bar satisfies on multiple levels, offering precious metal content, artistic interpretation, and cultural significance in one compact, enduring object.
To conclude, the Goddesses: Nerthus 2 oz Ag .9999 cast silver bar is a meaningful addition to any collection that bridges history, artistry, and bullion investment. With its high purity, low mintage, and reverent homage to a goddess of fertility, peace, and the earth, it stands as a testament to both ancient reverence and modern craftsmanship. Each bar carries not just value in silver but also the legacy of myth—a timeless reminder of the sacred bond between nature and humanity, embodied in one of Europe’s oldest deities.