The Royal Mint Celebrates the Year of the Sheep with a Special Edition Coin
Laura McQuarrie — February 17, 2015 — Art & Design
References: royalmint
In celebration of 2015 being the Lunar Year of the Sheep, the Royal Mint created a special edition coin to honor those born in this year. This coin is the second addition to the Royal Mint's Shēngxiào Collection—following the Year of the Horse—and this coin blends Chinese and British tradition with craftsmanship and symbolism, especially since the coin features the image of a Yorkshire Swalendale sheep on its face. In designing the coin, artist Wuon-Gean Ho describes: "I wanted the design to draw upon my British and Chinese heritage, as my parents are from Malaysia and Singapore and I was raised in the UK. I recall observing sheep as part of the British landscape."
The limited edition coins are available in a number of different formats, including gold, gold-plated and silver. In keeping with Chinese traditions around the arrival of a new year, the coins come packaged in red packaging to bestow good luck upon its owner.
The limited edition coins are available in a number of different formats, including gold, gold-plated and silver. In keeping with Chinese traditions around the arrival of a new year, the coins come packaged in red packaging to bestow good luck upon its owner.
Trend Themes
1. Lunar Year Coin Collections - Creating commemorative coins for the Lunar New Year that blend cultural traditions and symbolism can be a lucrative opportunity for mints around the world.
2. Heritage-inspired Artistry - Artists who incorporate their multicultural heritage into their designs can create unique and visually stunning products for various industries.
3. Cultural Symbolism in Packaging - Using traditional colors and packaging styles can add value and appeal to products celebrating cultural events or milestones.
Industry Implications
1. Numismatics and Collectibles - Creating special edition coins for collectors and enthusiasts can increase the revenue and visibility of numismatic organizations and the creators of such coins.
2. Art and Design - Incorporating cultural heritage and symbolism into various art forms can yield unique and marketable works that appeal to diverse audiences.
3. Consumer Packaged Goods - Incorporating cultural traditions and symbolism in packaging for special edition products can elevate the value and appeal of these goods, particularly during celebratory events or milestones.
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