There are one million known insect species worldwide, 33,000 species in Germany alone. From 2022, a total of nine coins will be dedicated to the theme of ‘The Wonderful World of Insects’. The ‘Insect Kingdom’ coin marks the start.
Unlike its eight successors, the inaugural coin ‘Insect Kingdom’ provides a general insight into the world of insects. The obverse shows a diverse habitat with water, land and air as well as various insects that animate this space. It is skilfully brought to the fore visually by the delicate colouring and the filigree depiction of the animal and plant world. For the first time, a digital print is used in which the colour is applied to the relief. The coin's title ‘Insect Kingdom’ embedded in the lower edge of the image forms the basis for the harmonious and successful depiction. The design was created by the artist Jordi Truxa from Neuenhagen near Berlin. The value side is used for all coins in the series. The design, created by artist Andre Witting from Berlin, impresses with its dignified yet dynamic depiction of the federal eagle.
The seven-spot ladybird was ‘Insect of the Year’ in Germany in 2006. It owes its name to the Virgin Mary: farmers believed that the beetle was a gift from Mary because of its usefulness in agriculture. It is also popular in domestic gardens, as both the larvae and the adults eat aphids and scale insects. The beetle is the first insect to be used and commercialised in biological pest control. It is generally regarded as a symbol of good luck and is a popular motif on greeting cards, stamps and in art, which is also due to its visual impact: seven black dots on shiny red wing covers, a hemispherical body and white spots on the head.
