Florida 1/2 Goldback 1/2000 ozt 24K gold

Lady Virtue: Spes (Hope)
 Enduring Principle: “Blessed are the meek.”
 
 The Florida Half Goldback honors the virtue “Spes” (Hope) through the figure of a Spanish
 conquistador, kneeling before the mythical Fountain of Youth. She wears the fleur-de-lis
 emblem, representing the era of exploration when France briefly established a foothold in
 Florida with the Huguenots’ settlement of Fort Caroline near present-day Jacksonville. The
 settlement was later overtaken by the Spanish in 1565.
 The year 1513 is etched in stone nearby, commemorating Juan Ponce de León’s voyage to
 Florida. He was inspired by Timucua legends of a spring believed to restore youth. This scene
 weaves together history and myth, portraying the conquistador’s hopeful quest for the
 rejuvenating spring and symbolizing humanity’s enduring pursuit of renewal and possibility.
 Although Ponce de León never founded a settlement, his expedition paved the way for Spain’s
 continued exploration, culminating in Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founding St. Augustine in
 1565—the oldest permanent European settlement in the United States. Set within a lush,
 tropical landscape, the artwork features Florida’s Zebra Longwing butterfly, a symbol of
 transformation. The resilient mockingbird, signifying perseverance, reflects explorers’ ambitions
 and the beauty of the New World.
 A Florida Cracker horse—first introduced by the Spanish and later designated as the state’s
 official horse—stands beside Spes, symbolizing the endurance required on such treacherous
 journeys. At the water’s edge, a conch shell pays homage to the Timucua, whose heritage was
 deeply connected to the land and sea. The shell, used in rituals and communication, honors
 Florida’s indigenous culture that thrived before European contact.
 This artwork, rich in symbolism, highlights the universal quest for renewal. The enduring
 principle, “Blessed are the meek,” honors those who humbly explore the unknown. It celebrates
 Florida’s history and the lasting legacy of St. Augustine as the birthplace of European settlement
 in the United States.