The chief engravers at two of the world’s largest and oldest mints have created a joint design for the 2024 Liberty and Britannia programs.
Following a successful joint project in 2021 featuring the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage coins and medals, the United States Mint and The Royal Mint are working together once again on a unique design for Liberty and Britannia — two historical themes featured on many coins over the years, but never together on one unified design. American Liberty, historically represented by a woman in her many variations, represents that bedrock value that is so important to Americans. She has appeared on U.S. coinage since the nation’s early years. Britannia, a staple on British coinage since the late 1600s, has long been the national personification of Britain. Often a symbol of maritime power, the allegorical image symbolizes national pride and unity.
The two countries have long shared a close relationship based on common values and ideals. In this project, these two historic Mints have come together in a groundbreaking creative partnership, featuring the talent and skills of each mint’s chief engraver to produce a design unifying Liberty and Britannia on one design. The United States Mint chief engraver, Joseph Menna, and the Royal Mint Chief Engraver, Gordon Summers, have created a stunning design, celebrating the harmony of the figures while giving each equal prominence in the design.
The design features allegorical Liberty and Britannia depicted in stoic profile portraits featuring complementary and balancing elements suggestive of the faces on a playing card. Their appearance identifies each figure; Liberty carries a torch and is adorned with stars, while Britannia wields a trident and wears a Corinthian helmet. Inscriptions will be appropriate for each nation.
“This has been an extraordinary opportunity for the United States Mint,” said Mint Director Ventris C. Gibson. “This occasion marks the first time that the chief engravers of both mints have collaborated on a single design. The combination of their artistic talents has resulted in a truly unique design that will surely be a collecting standout. Our hope is that this project expands the reach of both mints and leads to more opportunities for growth between our institutions.”
Nicola Howell, chief commercial officer at the Royal Mint, added: “I am delighted that our two great institutions have collaborated on this project, resulting in such an exquisite design, and making numismatic history by collaborating on a reverse design for the first time. The combined expertise of our Chief Engravers has resulted in something very special for customers across the world. Further to the design, the product available from the Royal Mint will be across both commemorative and bullion, offering customers the option to purchase a stunning collectable as well as offering an investment opportunity. As the Royal Mint grows its prominence in the U.S., this is an ideal opportunity for us to embrace the wants and needs of our international customers as we work with our counterpart across the Atlantic.”
The United States Mint and The Royal Mint will each utilize this design on products available in 2024. Find more information about products by visiting United States Mint and The Royal Mint.