2026 Cook Islands Knight Games - Jousting 1oz Silver

William Marshal (1147–1219) is considered one of the greatest knights of the Middle Ages. He won countless tournaments, earned fame and fortune, and served several kings of England. Even during his lifetime, he was celebrated as “the greatest knight who ever lived.”

This coin series, consisting of three issues, traces the path of a man who embodied the virtues of chivalry like no other: courage, honor, and loyalty.

The first issue depicts William Marshall during a joust, the supreme discipline of knightly competitions. What makes this image unique is the perspective. We see this duel and the moment just before the decisive clash with his opponent from William Marshall's point of view – more precisely, from the perspective through his visor. Depicted on his helmet, alongside his family coat of arms, is the cross of the Knights Templar, to which he belonged.

The concave reverse side enhances the dynamic effect of the battle scene and conveys the speed, tension, and intensity of the tournament. The finest details of the armor, weapons, and the cheering tournament crowd give the motif a particularly realistic atmosphere.

The obverse side depicts the victor bowing before the grandstand, as is customary after a victory. The edge features its official title in micro-script.

Specifications

• Mintage: 750
• Metal: Silver
• Feature: Coloured
• Weight: 1 oz
• Purity: .9999
• Size: 38.61 mm 
• Denomination: $5
• Country of Issue: Cook Islands