The Royal Mint reveals design of Princess Charlotte’s christening coin
01 Jul 2015
The Royal Mint has revealed the design of the £5 coin that celebrates the christening of Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, following approval from The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Her Majesty the Queen and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The designer has been announced as respected engraver John Bergdahl. The coin is decorated with harp-playing cherubs encircled by swags of lilies – design elements shared with the christening coin also designed by Bergdahl for Prince George of Cambridge, symbolising the link between the royal siblings. A baroque-style oval frame, or ‘cartouche’, at the centre of the new coin bears the inscription ‘To celebrate the Christening of Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Cambridge 2015’.
Inspiration for the design of both coins was taken from the lily font that has traditionally been used in the baptism of royal babies since Queen Victoria’s time, whilst the baroque style is often featured in royal artwork and traditions.
The new coin will be available in silver - in keeping with the long-established tradition of crossing a newborn baby’s palm with silver to confer good health and prosperity - and also in gold to mark the royal celebration. Shane Bissett, Director of Commemorative Coin and Medals at The Royal Mint said: “These coins will be a fitting addition to The Royal Mint’s long tradition of creating works of art to celebrate landmark events in the history of the Royal family. It is entirely appropriate that we commemorate this significant occasion with the release of a special coin, just as we celebrated the christening of Prince George.” A special limited edition £5 coin, also designed by John Bergdahl, was issued by The Royal Mint to mark the birth of Princess Charlotte on 2nd May 2015. Her christening will take place on 5 July at St Mary Magdalene Church at Her Majesty the Queen's Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
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