Designing change: coins of Elizabeth II
18 September 2008 – 1 March 2009
Room 69a
Exhibition closed
This small display features the new designs for all United
Kingdom coins up to the £1 coin, alongside the designs that have
been in use since decimalisation nearly 40 years ago.
The first decimal coins came into circulation in 1971 and were
designed by Christopher Ironside. Some of his intricate designs for
the reverses of the first decimal coins are on display and show the
process of developing these miniature works of art that are used
every day. Unsuccessful entries and early sketches for the
now-familiar coin designs are also included.
The designs for the new reverses are by Matt Dent. They are
based on the royal shield of arms and were chosen in a public
competition. The designs are shown alongside trial pieces, models,
and the dies used to produce the new coins. Some of the other
entries to the public competition for new designs are also featured
in the exhibition.
In collaboration with the Royal Mint