Australian Mint Coins Spark Debate Over Queen’s Portrait
Two newly released commemorative coins from the Royal Australian Mint have sparked debate after many observers said the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II bears little resemblance to the late monarch. The coins, a $5 piece and a 50-cent silver coin, were produced to mark the 100th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth and were made available through an online ballot that closed on Wednesday. Soon after their release, images of the coins circulated online, prompting mixed reactions. Several social media users were openly critical of the design. Some described the portrait as unflattering, while others said they would not have recognised the Queen without her signature hairstyle and pearls. A number of commenters even compared the image to fictional characters from television and film. In response, the Royal Australian Mint defended the artwork, explaining that designs can appear different once […]