Two commemorative coins, released by the Royal Australian Mint, bear a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II that has been criticized for its lack of resemblance to the late monarch.
The $5 and 50 cent silver coins, created to commemorate the centenary of the Queen's birth, were released in an online ballot. Mixed reactions followed, with one user commenting, That's got to be the most unpleasant portrait on a coin. The Royal Australian Mint responded to the backlash, stating, Our coin images don't always capture the full beauty of a design once it's etched in metal.
Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 96, was the UK’s longest-serving monarch. Further criticism highlighted how the portrait, showing a somewhat startled expression, likened her to fictional characters, including Mrs. Doubtfire. Others, however, expressed positive feedback on social media, praising the design and the recognition it offered to the late queen.
Despite the negative reviews, demand for the coins was high, with reports indicating that the ballot was fully subscribed. The mint confirmed that the silver proof coins had already sold out, with limited stocks remaining available at their contact center and store. In total, they produced 30,000 of the 50 cent coins and 5,000 of the $5 version.
The coins feature designs symbolically reflecting various aspects of Queen Elizabeth II's life, including motifs of a horse and corgi, cultural references, and her favorite flowers. They also display her Royal Cypher, St Edward's Crown, and emblems from her wartime service, while the back features a profile portrait of King Charles III.
