The introduction of the new decimal series of coins was no easy task 40 years ago. From settling the dimensions of the coins, to the creation of the designs, to their production by the Royal Mint it was a mammoth undertaking. Not only did the different denominations need to be readily distinguishable by sight and touch from each other, they also needed to avoid being confused with existing coins of the pre-decimal system.

As for their designs, a new portrait of the Queen by Arnold Machin RA had already been prepared and approved, while for the reverse designs it was announced in November 1966 that a public competition would be arranged. More than 80 artists took part and, from the 900 or so designs that were received, a series by Christopher Ironside was eventually approved, his designs drawing praise for the ‘lack of clutter’, a requirement that had been stressed in the creative brief.