11 September 2024
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The Royal Mint have released the third and final coin in their Robin Hood Myths and Legends collection, featuring Little John.
The reverse of the brilliant uncirculated £5 coin, which has been designed by Jody Clark, shows Little John standing tall amongst the trees of Sherwood Forest and grasping his iconic quarterstaff. The obverse features the portrait of King Charles III by Martin Jennings.
Collectors that would like to add this coin to their haul can buy the new Myths and Legends Little John brilliant uncirculated coin for £15.50. The coin is also available as a 1 oz silver proof, 2 oz silver proof and 1 oz gold proof. The Little John coin can also be purchased as part of the Myths and Legends Robin Hood collection, which includes previous coin releases depicting Robin Hood and Maid Marian.
Above: The new £5 coin depicts Little John grasping his iconic quarterstaff in Sherwood Forest
Who are Robin Hood and Little John?
Robin Hood has existed through the retelling of adventures since the 13th century and is deeply engrained in English legend. Many believe that the early tales of Robin Hood passed down the generations through the oral tradition of ballads. By the late-14th century, he had received his first literary mention in The Vision of Piers Plowman and since then, the legendary archer has been subject to many interpretations through a variety of mediums.
Today, Robin Hood is seen as an aggrieved yeoman. He is said to have been a staunch supporter of Richard I and took part in the Third Crusade (1189-92). Upon his return to England, he found his lands had been seized by the sheriff of Nottingham, which left him no choice but to become an outlaw. He retained his sense of honour, however, by only taking from the rich and redistributing his stolen wealth amongst those that needed it the most.
In the most popular accounts of Robin Hood, he has a group of allies, known as the Merry Men, including Maid Marian, Little John and Friar Tuck. Little John is Robin Hood’s second in command and one of his oldest literary companions. Renowned for his unwavering loyalty, he often comes to Robin Hood’s aid and feature prominently in many adventures.