Two commemorative coins featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II have been criticized for their lack of resemblance to the late monarch. Released by the Royal Australian Mint, the $5 and 50 cent silver coins were created to mark the centenary of the Queen's birth.
Public reactions on social media have been mixed. Some users described the portrait as the 'most unpleasant' they had seen, with comments suggesting it resembled fictional characters, such as Mrs. Doubtfire. One user noted, 'There’s a reason most portraits are from the side. Looks like she just ran into a wall.'
Defending the design, a representative from the Royal Australian Mint stated, 'Our coin images don't always capture the full beauty of a design once it's etched in metal.'
Despite the criticisms, affection for the Queen remains strong; collectors rushed to acquire these coins, and reports indicate that the ballot was fully subscribed. The mint has said that 30,000 of the 50c coins and 5,000 of the $5 coins were produced, with no plans for general circulation.
Commentary on social media expressed both negative views on the coin's likeness and positive sentiments about commemorating Queen Elizabeth II. One user commented that the coin was a beautiful tribute to the late monarch, while others appreciated the design's symbolic motifs representing her life and legacy, including elements reflecting her love for culture and Australia.
The coins feature not only the Queen's portrait but also references to her interests, such as the golden wattle--Australia's national floral emblem. The reverse side showcases a portrait of King Charles III. As the Royal Australian Mint continues to receive feedback, it remains a relevant conversation piece in Australia and beyond.
Public reactions on social media have been mixed. Some users described the portrait as the 'most unpleasant' they had seen, with comments suggesting it resembled fictional characters, such as Mrs. Doubtfire. One user noted, 'There’s a reason most portraits are from the side. Looks like she just ran into a wall.'
Defending the design, a representative from the Royal Australian Mint stated, 'Our coin images don't always capture the full beauty of a design once it's etched in metal.'
Despite the criticisms, affection for the Queen remains strong; collectors rushed to acquire these coins, and reports indicate that the ballot was fully subscribed. The mint has said that 30,000 of the 50c coins and 5,000 of the $5 coins were produced, with no plans for general circulation.
Commentary on social media expressed both negative views on the coin's likeness and positive sentiments about commemorating Queen Elizabeth II. One user commented that the coin was a beautiful tribute to the late monarch, while others appreciated the design's symbolic motifs representing her life and legacy, including elements reflecting her love for culture and Australia.
The coins feature not only the Queen's portrait but also references to her interests, such as the golden wattle--Australia's national floral emblem. The reverse side showcases a portrait of King Charles III. As the Royal Australian Mint continues to receive feedback, it remains a relevant conversation piece in Australia and beyond.
