April 21, 2011- The Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten announced a commemorative 20 cent coin, celebrating the marriage of Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton, will be released into public circulation after the wedding takes place.
Australia – 20c – Cu/Nickel – 11.30 g – 28.52 mm – Finish: Circulated – Mintage: Unlimited – Vladimir Gottwald.
The coin, designed and issued by the Royal Australian Mint, features a detailed sculpted portrait of the couple which went through a highly consultative approval process with Her Majesty The Queen. The Assistant Treasurer remarked that it was fitting for the Royal Australian Mint, on behalf of Australia and the Australian Government, to continue the tradition of honouring and preserving royal history as they have done so well in the past.
“This royal wedding will capture the hearts of millions around the world, and as we have done so in the past with royal celebrations, a special circulating coin will be released to the public to commemorate this important occasion in royal history,” said the Assistant Treasurer. “There are many royal collectibles out there but this circulating coin creates the excitement of checking your change to see if there happens to be a collectible right there in your pocket.”
Royal Australian Mint’s renowned coin sculptor Vladimir Gottwald designed this stunning coin using images of the couple as inspiration. “Sculpting people’s faces can be rather challenging but Vladimir has exemplified quality craftsmanship and created a timeless piece which will be a collectible for years to come,” said Royal Australian Mint Chief Executive Officer Ross MacDiarmid.
Australia – 50c – Cu/Nickel – 15.55 g – 31.51 mm – Finish: Uncirculated – Mintage: Unlimited – Vladimir Gottwald.
The same design on the circulating 20 cent coin will also be offered on a collectible uncirculated 50 cent coin and as part of the Royal Wedding Set released earlier in March.
“The 2011 Royal Collection has presented all Australians with the opportunity to secure a precious keepsake of the fairy-tale marriage of Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton,” said Mr MacDiarmid.
If you want to know more about the Royal Australian Mint take a look here.
If like to stay up-to-date on the royal wedding don’t miss this site.
You want more information about the royal couple? Then this is for you.