The Singapore Mint

250 Nu (Kingdom of Bhutan)

Silver 999°

10000

Proof, colour coin

All design by the Singapore Mint

The Singapore Mint

Obverse: the obverse features Wat Pho, The Temple of the Reclining Buddha of Thailand. Located in Bangkok, Wat Pho, one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples, is famous for its huge reclining Buddha statue which has his feet inlaid with mother of pearl. Its soles of the feet present intricate engraving of the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha. Buddha rays are often associated with the flowing of the Buddha and people who manage to see this extraordinary phenomenon consider it to be a miracle. The rays behind the reclining Buddha on the coin depicts a seemingly „glowing Buddha‟. Reverse: the reverse features the Dhug or The Protection Parasol, which is a traditional symbol of both protection and royalty. It symbolizes the authority of the Buddha`s teachings and the wholesome activity of preserving beings from illness, harmful forces, obstacles and so forth in life. One important function of a parasol or umbrella is to cast a shadow, the shadow of protection, just as the Parasol offers protection from the sun, the Buddha also protects people`s spirits from evil.

Buddhism is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as “The Buddha” (the Awakened One). The coin program highlights the spread of the different schools of Buddhism throughout the different regions of the world. There are eight auspicious symbols in Buddhism which can often be found on Buddhism related paraphernalia. The parasol, golden fish, treasure case, lotus, conch, endless knot, Dharma wheel and victory flag represents a unique aspects of Buddhist teachings. Its unique and unconventional design showcases the Buddha statue with its name and country of origin inscribed on the reverse. The obverse is a nod to its country of issue, the Kingdom of Bhutan and highlights one of Eight Auspicious symbols, replacing the traditional national emblem.