12 APOSTLES: ST.BARTHOLOMEW (Gold Glided)
2oz 999 Fine Silver Coin – Republique Du Cameroon – 2,000 Francs CFA
 
This is the eighth coin from the 12 Apostles series, also includes:
2025 - St Peter 2oz
2025 - St Andrew 2oz
2025 - St Simon 2oz
2025 - St James 2oz
2025 - St Thomas 2oz
2025 - St Matthias 2oz
2025 - St Philip 2oz
2025 - St Bartholomew
2025 - St Matthew 2oz
 
The St. Bartholomew Coin is the eighth powerful instalment in the 12 Apostles Series—an evocative tribute to one of Christ’s most enduring yet enigmatic followers. Known for his unwavering loyalty and gruesome martyrdom, Bartholomew’s legacy is one of quiet strength, inner conviction, and divine endurance.
 
Crafted in intricate high relief and available in antique silver and radiant gold gilded finishes, this coin captures his flaying—a martyrdom so brutal that it became his most iconic symbol. The cross-shaped design frames this intense scene with reverence and artistry.
 
The Story of St. Bartholomew – The Flayed Apostle
Bartholomew, often identified with Nathanael in the Gospel of John, was a man described by Jesus as “an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit.” (John 1:47). Known for his sincerity and spiritual depth, he followed Jesus faithfully, traveling as far as India and Armenia to preach the Gospel.
His martyrdom, however, is among the most harrowing in apostolic history. Tradition tells us that he was flayed alive before being beheaded for refusing to renounce his faith. Despite the agony, his faith held firm, and his death became a chilling yet inspiring testimony of unshakeable belief.
 
Reverse Design – The Flaying of a Saint
The reverse depicts the moment of Bartholomew’s horrific martyrdom. One figure restrains him while another carries out the flaying with chilling precision. Yet amidst the violence, Bartholomew’s face remains composed—a testimony to his spiritual transcendence.
The antique finish accentuates the brutal realism with shadowed textures and lifelike suffering.
At the base, his name is subtly engraved, honoring his ultimate offering: St. Bartholomew.
 
Obverse Design – Stripped of Flesh, Yet Full of Faith
The obverse presents a striking vision of Bartholomew post-martyrdom, standing boldly, his flayed body exposed yet unbowed, holding both the knife of his execution and his own removed skin. This unsettling yet majestic representation reflects his triumph over torture and death.
In the antique version, the anatomical detail commands reverence and awe.
Behind him, rugged stone textures and the cross silhouette evoke the eternal backdrop of faith.
Inscriptions include:
“RÉPUBLIQUE DU CAMEROUN”
“2 oz Ag 999”
“2000 FRANCS CFA”
“2025”
 
Why This Coin Matters
✅ Extreme Artistic Courage: Depicting the flaying with both reverence and realism
✅ Dual Finish Impact: Antique for grit and shadow, gold gilded for triumph and sanctity
✅ Limited Mintage: Only 199 pieces, forever capturing the story of a saint who endured the unthinkable
✅ Apostolic Tribute in Silver: A coin not just of history—but of spiritual resilience
 
From Flesh to Faith – A Saint Immortalized in Metal
The St. Bartholomew Coin is more than a numismatic marvel—it’s a haunting yet holy commemoration of courage through suffering. As the eighth release in the 12 Apostles Series, it dares to show the cost of devotion and the beauty that can emerge from brutality.
With its vivid sculpture, rare availability, and soul-stirring story, this coin is a tribute to the man who bore his faith not only in life, but in every layer of his flesh.