The best: When artistry and royalty collide
When a commemorative coin is done right, it can be a beautiful tribute. Many of the official royal commemorative coins are exceptional examples of design and craftsmanship. The Royal Mint, for instance, released an official £5 coin for the royal wedding that depicted Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in a relaxed, intimate pose, gazing lovingly at each other. The intricate detail, from the couple's expressions to the engraving, highlighted a genuine and personal connection, making it one of the most beloved commemorative coins.
Similarly, the Royal Canadian Mint's commemorative coins for the couple have been well-received. Their $20 silver coin for the wedding featured an elegant portrait of the couple surrounded by symbolic Canadian maple leaves and English roses. The inclusion of three Swarovski crystals, representing Meghan's engagement ring, was a thoughtful and luxurious touch. These commemorative coins, with their rich symbolism and attention to detail, are a testament to how to celebrate a royal moment with grace.
The worst: When design goes wrong
On the other end of the spectrum, there are some truly disappointing commemorative coins. Some attempts to capture the likeness of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been met with public mockery and criticism. The challenge of rendering a perfect portrait on a small, metallic surface is clear, but some of the fails have been particularly jarring. Social media users have been quick to point out poor craftsmanship, with some coins looking more like crude cartoons than royal mementos.
One particularly unfortunate coin from a private mint was widely ridiculed for its less-than-accurate portrayal of the couple, demonstrating the risks of unvetted, unofficial commemorative coins. A poor design choice can leave a collector with an item that not only lacks aesthetic value, but also becomes a punchline. This serves as a cautionary tale for those seeking to purchase commemorative coins from less-reputable sources. The appeal of any commemorative coin depends heavily on its execution, and for these examples, the execution simply missed the mark.
The collecting community's view
For numismatists and dedicated collectors, the differences in quality and origin among these commemorative coins are of great importance. The coins issued by official bodies like the Royal Mint or the Royal Canadian Mint hold greater prestige and potential long-term value, thanks to their limited mintage and assured craftsmanship. They represent a piece of verifiable, royal history, making them highly desirable.
However, the proliferation of unofficial commemorative coins also speaks to the immense public interest in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Even poorly-designed coins,, or those from private dealers, have found buyers, proving that the enthusiasm for the couple transcends mere artistic merit. These less-revered commemorative coins become a quirky side-note in the overall story, an artifact of a specific cultural moment.
How to distinguish quality commemorative coins
For those entering the world of royal collectibles, understanding what makes a commemorative coin truly valuable is key. Beyond the official issuing body, consider the rarity, the quality of the metal, and the overall design. Researching the issuing mint and looking for reviews of specific commemorative coins is an important first step. Scrutinize images closely and, if possible, see the coin in person before committing to a purchase.
Ultimately, whether you collect the best or simply take a morbid curiosity in the worst, the commemorative coins celebrating Prince Harry and Meghan Markle offer a unique window into how public figures are immortalized. These small discs of metal, with their varied artistry, tell a bigger story about fame, love, and the ever-present allure of the British royal family. The legacy of these many commemorative coins, both good and bad, will undoubtedly continue to fascinate collectors for years to come.
