The Royal Australian Mint has ignited public debate with its newly released commemorative coins honoring the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth. The $5 and 50-cent silver coins, featuring a frontal portrait of the late monarch, have drawn significant criticism for their perceived lack of resemblance to Britain’s longest-serving ruler.
Social media platforms erupted with negative reactions shortly after the coins’ unveiling. One commentator described the portrait as “the most unpleasant depiction on a coin,” while another suggested the frontal perspective made it appear “like she just ran into a wall.” Several observers noted the design bore stronger resemblance to fictional characters, including Mrs. Doubtfire from the beloved comedy film, than to the actual queen.
The mint defended its artistic choices, explaining that “coin images don’t always capture the full beauty of a design once it’s etched in metal.” Despite the controversy, the limited edition coins proved immediately popular among collectors. The online ballot for purchasing the coins closed Wednesday with full subscription, and mint officials confirmed the silver proof versions had completely sold out.
Only 30,000 of the 50-cent coins and 5,000 of the $5 denominations were produced, ensuring their status as exclusive collector’s items that will not enter general circulation. Beyond the controversial portrait, the coins feature intricate symbolic elements celebrating the queen’s life and legacy, including motifs of horses and corgis, artistic references to her cultural patronage, and floral emblems representing both her personal preferences (roses and lily of the valley) and Australia’s national flower (golden wattle).
The design also incorporates Her Majesty’s Royal Cypher, a stylized St Edward’s Crown, and the Auxiliary Territorial Service emblem acknowledging her wartime service. The reverse sides display a profile portrait of King Charles III, continuing the royal numismatic tradition.