Irish Central Bank Bull Motif 5 Pence Coin
Coin/Bullion · Central Bank of Ireland (Banc Ceannais na hÉireann)
Pattern: Modern Irish Decimal Series, Five Pence
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Central Bank of Ireland (Banc Ceannais na hÉireann)
Material
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is a base metal alloy, not silver, despite the silver-colored appearance.
Dimensions
Diameter: 18.0 mm (approx. 0.70 inches); Weight: 3.25 grams. This is the 'Small Size' version introduced in 1992.
Description
This is a standard circulation 5 pence coin from Ireland. It features the iconic 'Bull' design, which was originally created by Percy Metcalfe for the 1928 Irish Free State coinage and subsequently adapted for decimal use. The design is celebrated for its clean, modernist interpretation of ancient Celtic art styles.
Key Features
Raised bull figure walking left on a ground line with the denomination '5P' centered below.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is a base metal alloy, not silver, despite the silver-colored appearance.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief die-struck finish with a raised rim. The design features a side profile of a bull (inspired by the Book of Kells) and the denomination 5p.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. As a coin, it features a mint strike. The obverse would traditionally feature the Irish Harp and the year of issue.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck by a coining press on a prepared metal blank (planchet).
Functional Features
Milled edge (reeding) for tactile identification and to prevent clipping. Legal tender status in Ireland until 2002.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; circular coin form.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-work with a focus on durability and mass-scale consistency. The relief remains crisp despite being a circulation strike.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for '5P', specific stylized tail characteristic of the Irish 5p series, and die-alignment consistent with official minting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ireland. Likely minted at the Currency Centre in Sandyford, Dublin.
Era & Period
Modern European Numismatic - Irish Decimalization Period (1971-2002).
Age Estimate
Circa 1992-2000. This smaller diameter reflects the resizing of the 5p coin in the early 90s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic transition of Ireland from a sterling-linked economy to the Eurozone and preserves medieval Celtic iconography on modern currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine circulation wear. Visible surface scratching, moderate oxidation/tarnish consistent with pocket wear, and minor edge dings.
Value Estimate
Nominal value ($0.10 - $1.00 USD) unless part of a proof set or a rare error year. It holds primarily sentimental or historical curiosity value.
Care & Maintenance
For numismatic items, do not polish. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Pre-1992 Large 5p coins (23.59mm), Irish 1 Shilling (pre-decimal), and the Irish 10p which features a salmon motif.
Interesting Facts
The bull design is based on the 'Brown Bull of Cooley' from the Irish epic 'Táin Bó Cúailnge'. All Irish pound-denominated coins were demonetized in 2002 with the introduction of the Euro.