A special coin has been unveiled to celebrate what would have been the 100th birthday of the late Queen Elizabeth. The portrait on the coin has faced criticism for its unconventional design.
The Australian Royal Mint has issued $5 (£2.56) and 50 cent silver coins to mark the Queen’s birth centenary on April 21. The coin features a portrait of the Queen in her later years, surrounded by floral patterns, her royal cypher, and motifs of a horse and corgi. Unlike traditional royal coins that show Queen Elizabeth II in profile, this coin displays a full-frontal portrait.
After its release through a national ballot on Wednesday, the design quickly gained attention online, with many expressing disapproval, claiming that the portrait does not resemble the late Queen. Social media users made unflattering comparisons, likening the image to characters from popular shows and movies.
While some criticized the design, others praised it, expressing appreciation for honoring Queen Elizabeth II on what would have been her 100th birthday. The Royal Australian Mint defended the design, stating that the intricacies of the coin may not be fully captured in photographs.
In addition to the Queen’s portrait, the coins include symbols representing various aspects of Queen Elizabeth II’s life and legacy, such as her support for culture, wartime service, and national emblems. Queen Elizabeth II’s ties to Australia are highlighted, as the nation continues to discuss its constitutional future and calls for republicanism.
The coin’s design incorporates elements reflecting the Queen’s interests and achievements, aiming to pay tribute to her significant contributions throughout her reign.
