Maritime Imagery
Episode 1
Whether in warships or life saving, Britain’s naval heritage has had a lasting impact on its currency for centuries. In this episode, explore the story of British naval history through coins of the past.
Coins and the Sea Podcast
Britain is a maritime nation that has been shaped by our relationship with the sea. The same is true about our nation’s coinage. Whether this is a direct and obvious link, in the form of images of ships on our coins, or in slightly more obscure interaction between trade and the production of coinage, our connection with the sea has had a far-reaching impact on our coinage. Over six episodes we will explore this relationship, using the coinage to examine topics as varied as shipwrecks, life onboard ship through to the myth and allure of pirates.
Britannia
Episode 2
From pub signs to punk art, the robed and armed female figure of Britannia permeates British identity. Find out how this Classical figure developed through coinage and medallic art to become a figure of the nation.
Maritime Trade
Episode 3
The golden age of sail gave way to a world of global trade, where gold and silver could be sailed internationally for vast profit. Explore how the money made from and used for this trade shaped British history.
Life on Board
Episode 4
Whether sailing, trading or something less legitimate, those who lived and worked on the seas expected payment for their labour. How would sailors have been paid, and more importantly when?
Shipwreck
Episode 5
The allure of shipwrecks has drawn treasure hunters and historians alike, but what happens to the cargo they carry? This episode uncovers what happens when gold and silver are recovered from beneath the waves.
Booty!
Episode 6
Pirates, privateers and general rogues of the sea have been long associated with chests overflowing with coins. But did they really make their fortunes in shining silver, and are there chests of treasure out there waiting to be found?
Guests
Throughout this series we’ve been joined by special guests from national institutions, museums, and research networks. Find out more about each of our podcast guests on this page.
Glossary
Got a question about some of the coin or sea terminology in use in an episode? Check out the glossary for more information.