Chapel of Bethlehem – 1 AVDP Oz .999 Fine Copper Round | Gargoyles of the World Series

Explore the whimsical side of Gothic-inspired stonework with the Chapel of Bethlehem copper round, the third installment in our Gargoyles of the World Series. Perched on the historic Chapel of Bethlehem in Saint-Jean-de-Boiseau, near Nantes, France, this peculiar gargoyle captures a playful tradition of architectural sculpture.

Struck in .999 fine copper, this 1 oz AVDP round measures 39mm and features a finely detailed depiction of the quirky feline-like gargoyle grasping a large fish in its mouth. Set against the chapel’s stone façade, the charming figure showcases the unique humor often hidden among Gothic structures. The reverse continues the series’ signature design — an ornate gothic window motif framing the Gargoyles of the World title beneath a winged guardian.

The Legend

The Chapel of Bethlehem stands in Saint-Jean-de-Boiseau, near Nantes. Its late-medieval architecture gained a striking new chapter during restoration in 1993–1995, when reconstructed pinnacles received contemporary sculptural decoration. This history brings together an old building and modern imagination; the fantastical carvings should not all be mistaken for surviving medieval originals.

An irresistible addition for collectors fascinated by the lighter, more playful side of Gothic architecture.

Highlights

• Contains 1 oz. AVDP of .999 Fine Copper
• Obverse: The Chapel of Bethlehem’s cat-like gargoyle holding a fish, set against the chapel’s stonework
• Reverse: Gargoyles of the World Series design featuring gothic window detailing and winged gargoyle
• Diameter: 39mm

Explore more designs in our copper round collection.