International Comparison of World Commemorative Coins: Design and Technology

The purpose of this study is to compare designs, shapes, materials, surface treatments, and manufacturing technologies/processes of world commemorative coins. Especially design is a crucial factor to commemorative coins. A keynote for a good commemorative coin design is to crystallize the main themes and concepts of design into the most beautiful forms using metallic materials, in contrast to banknote or stamp design. Comparative view on the designs of world commemorative coins differ depending on regional characteristics and cultural environment. However, based on various commemorative coins, this study concludes that the recent design trend of world commemorative coins has shifted from the conventional simple concept made solely for the purpose of celebrating an event to adjustment to the tastes of collectors, and the quality of designs starts to play a conclusive role in deciding success or failure of coinage. Before the 19th century, the purpose of commemorative coins was to proffer, propagandize and possess while it is now to raise fund for an event and supplement governmental finances and so on, resulting in commercialization of coinage. Furthermore, entering a global age, developing a design fitting international sentiment. Nowadays commemorative coins take up a part of national culture and economy. Moreover, the artistic value which the design of commemorative coins have is being highly appreciated more and more