The fifth labour of Hercules — cleaning the Augean Stables — was meant to humiliate the hero, yet became one of his most ingenious triumphs.
This magnificent 2 oz silver coin from Niue commemorates the Fifth Labour of Hercules: cleansing the stables of King Augeas. These divine livestock were immortal and had produced an unimaginable amount of dung for over thirty years. The task was both degrading and impossible — until Hercules achieved it by rerouting two mighty rivers, Alpheus and Peneus, to wash away the filth.
Ultra high relief detail of the Augean Stables – Hercules redirects the rivers to cleanse the filth.
The success of this labour was later disqualified by King Eurystheus, claiming Hercules had been paid for his work and that the rushing waters, not the hero himself, had done the cleaning. Nonetheless, the Augean Stables remain one of the most famous and symbolic feats of the Greek hero’s Twelve Labours — a story of wit, endurance, and divine determination.
⚙️ Details That Speak Volumes
- 2 oz of .999 fine silver with legal tender value (Niue)
- Antique finish with ultra high relief
- Selective matte gold gilding accent
- Rimless design with engraved serial number
- Limited edition – only 500 pieces worldwide