The Coverdale Bible holds a significant place in the history of the English language and biblical translation. Printed in Zurich, Switzerland, it represented the culmination of efforts led by William Tyndale and Myles Coverdale to create a Bible in the vernacular for English speakers. Tyndale's previous work, translating key portions of the Bible into English, provided much of the foundational text for this complete translation. Coverdale, who was Tyndale's associate, undertook the challenge of finalizing and publishing the complete Bible, which was printed by Peter Schoeffer.

The Coverdale Bible was notable for its dedication to King Henry VIII, seeking royal support and acknowledgment of its significance. It not only drew from Tyndale’s work but also included translations from other languages, such as the Latin Vulgate and German texts, facilitating a wider reach. This translation was pivotal in addressing the need for accessible religious texts for a burgeoning literate English public, emerging from a time of significant theological debate and reform.

The publication of the Coverdale Bible coincided with the Protestant Reformation, which questioned the authority of the Catholic Church and emphasized personal interpretation of the scriptures. With it, Coverdale contributed to the rich tapestry of religious and cultural change across Europe, especially in England, where reformers faced both support and resistance from religious authorities.