The Royal Australian Mint has recently released two commemorative coins featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, intended to honor the centenary of her birth. However, the designs have drawn significant criticism for failing to capture a true likeness of the late monarch, who passed away in 2022.
The coins, which come in $5 (£2.56) and 50 cent denominations, were made available through an online ballot that closed last Wednesday. Many have taken to social media to express their disappointment, with one user calling it 'the most unpleasant portrait on a coin.' The Royal Australian Mint has defended the designs, asserting that coin images do not always reflect the full beauty of the etched designs.
Among the negative feedback, some comments included remarks that likened the coin's portrait to various fictional characters. In contrast, there were positive responses praising the mint's effort to commemorate the Queen's legacy, with comments from users expressing excitement about the designs.
Despite the mixed reactions, the coins have gained popularity among collectors, leading to a reported sell-out status of the limited edition pieces. According to the mint, a total of 30,000 50c coins and 5,000 $5 coins were produced as part of this collection, all of which are intended for collectors rather than general circulation. Aside from the Queen's likeness, the coins also feature symbolism reflecting her life, including a horse, corgi, and various floral motifs, alongside the profile of her son, King Charles, on the reverse side.
The coins, which come in $5 (£2.56) and 50 cent denominations, were made available through an online ballot that closed last Wednesday. Many have taken to social media to express their disappointment, with one user calling it 'the most unpleasant portrait on a coin.' The Royal Australian Mint has defended the designs, asserting that coin images do not always reflect the full beauty of the etched designs.
Among the negative feedback, some comments included remarks that likened the coin's portrait to various fictional characters. In contrast, there were positive responses praising the mint's effort to commemorate the Queen's legacy, with comments from users expressing excitement about the designs.
Despite the mixed reactions, the coins have gained popularity among collectors, leading to a reported sell-out status of the limited edition pieces. According to the mint, a total of 30,000 50c coins and 5,000 $5 coins were produced as part of this collection, all of which are intended for collectors rather than general circulation. Aside from the Queen's likeness, the coins also feature symbolism reflecting her life, including a horse, corgi, and various floral motifs, alongside the profile of her son, King Charles, on the reverse side.
