1994 Republic of Ireland One Pound (£1) Punt Coin
Coin/Bullion · Central Bank of Ireland (Minted at the Currency Centre in Dublin). The bank was established in 1943 to oversee Irish currency and maintain monetary stability.
Pattern: Modern Decimal Series (Punt)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Central Bank of Ireland (Minted at the Currency Centre in Dublin). The bank was established in 1943 to oversee Irish currency and maintain monetary stability.
Material
Nickel-Brass (Note: This is NOT silver, though the image may appear metallic or 'silvered' due to tarnish or lighting). Composition: 75% Copper, 20% Zinc, 5% Nickel.
Dimensions
Diameter: 31.1 mm; Thickness: 3.15 mm; Weight: 10 grams.
Description
This is a standard circulation 1994 Irish Pound. While the image shows heavy oxidation that mimic silver tarnish, these coins were produced in a distinct gold-colored nickel-brass alloy. The obverse displays the iconic national emblem of Ireland—the Brian Boru harp—while the reverse (not pictured) would feature the Red Deer as designed by Tom Ryan.
Key Features
Large circular design, thicker than typical silver coinage; distinctive Gaelic typeface for 'ÉIRE'.
Material & Composition
Nickel-Brass (Note: This is NOT silver, though the image may appear metallic or 'silvered' due to tarnish or lighting). Composition: 75% Copper, 20% Zinc, 5% Nickel.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated finish featuring the Percy Metcalfe designed Irish Harp (Clàrsach) on the obverse. Reverse features an Ornate Stag/Red Deer design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
State name 'ÉIRE' on the obverse; the date '1994' appearing above the harp. No precious metal hallmarks as it is base metal.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck on a round planchet. Milled edge (security rim with patterns).
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the Republic of Ireland from 1990 until the introduction of the Euro in 2002.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Coinage
Craftsmanship Details
High-volume industrial minting. Consistent relief and sharp lettering typical of modern 20th-century coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and central harp placement. The heavy darkness suggests environmental damage rather than silver sulfide tarnish.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ireland; Currency Centre, Sandyford, Dublin.
Era & Period
Modern Republic of Ireland (Decimalization era, pre-Euro).
Age Estimate
Issued in 1994 (30 years old as of 2024).
Cultural Significance
The harp is the official state emblem of Ireland, appearing on the Presidential Seal and all official state documents, as well as being a symbol of Irish musical tradition.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair condition for a collector. Shows significant surface oxidation, dark tarnish/patina, and loss of original brass luster. Significant 'rim nicks' or wear visible.
Value Estimate
Face value is zero (withdrawn from circulation). Collector value in this condition is $1 - $3 USD. Proof versions in silver were made for collectors, but this is the circulation brass variety.
Care & Maintenance
As this is a base-metal coin, cleaning is generally discouraged by numismatists as it can further damage the surface. Store in a PVC-free flip if conservation is desired.
Similar Pieces
1990-2000 Irish Pounds. Often confused with silver medals or tokens by those unfamiliar with Irish pre-Euro currency.
Interesting Facts
The pound coin replaced the pound note in 1990 because the notes were wearing out too quickly. These coins remained in use for only 12 years before being phased out for the Euro.