Hercules plus copper make a powerful combination on this Nemean Lion 1 oz round from Provident Metals. Each piece contains .999 fine copper.

The Nemean Lion is the first one ounce bullion round released in the 12 Labors of Hercules Series. It will be available from Sept. 12 through Oct. 12, 2014.

A final mintage will be released following the conclusion of sales.

The obverse features Hercules wearing the Nemean Lion’s fur as armor. The image will appear on the obverse of each round in the series.

The reverse portrays an attacking Nemean Lion soaring through the air toward its challenger. Bones from previous foes lie under the pouncing lion. Inscriptions read NEMEAN LION and I, the roman numeral denoting Hercules’ first labor.

Hercules was sent to slay the Nemean Lion for his first Labor. The massive animal with impenetrable fur was said to keep hostages in a Nemea cave and devour the remains of those that came to rescue the captured.

Wielding his famous wooden club, Hercules traveled to the lion’s cave to defeat the beast. Using his tremendous power, Hercules overpowered the lion and completed his task.

The lion’s sharp claws were used to cut its indestructible fur and Hercules wore it on his head as armor in future battles.

12 Labors of Hercules

Driven crazy by Hera, Hercules slew his family — only regretful after recovering his sanity. King Thespius purified the son of Zeus, but to atone for his crimes, he was sent to serve King Eurystheus.

Eurystheus ordered Hercules to execute 10 Labors, which were a series of tasks carried out as penance for his actions. Hercules successfully completed all 10, but because his nephew helped with one and he planned to accept payment for another, Eurystheus forced Hercules to finish two more Labors alone.

Hercules’ Labors adhere to the traditional order of the Bibliotheca:

1. Nemean Lion – Sept. 12, 2014;
2. Lernaean Hydra – Oct. 12, 2014;
3. Ceryneian Hind – Nov. 12, 2014;
4. Erymanthian Boar – Dec. 12, 2014;
5. Augean Stables – Jan. 12, 2015;
6. Stymphalian Birds – Feb. 12, 2015;
7. Cretan Bull – March 12, 2015;
8. Mares of Diomedes – April 12, 2015;
9. Girdle of Hippolyta – May 12, 2015;
10. Cattle of Geryon – June 12, 2015;
11. Apples of Hesperides – July 12, 2015;
12. Cerberus – Aug. 12, 2015

Secure this Nemean Lion 1 oz Silver round from Provident Metals today.