1988 Irish Pound
Ireland
1988–1994
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Specifications
| Country | Ireland |
| Years Minted | 1988–1994 |
| Composition | Bimetallic: outer ring nickel-brass, center cupro-nickel |
| Weight | 28.28 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Reeded |
Design
Obverse
Features the Irish harp, the national emblem of Ireland.
Reverse
Depicts a design commemorating Ireland's presidency of the European Community in 1988.
History & Notable Facts
This 1988 Irish pound was one of the first bimetallic coins to enter everyday circulation in Ireland, combining a brass ring with an aluminium-bronze center to deter counterfeiting.
That design choice reflected broader trends in the 1980s, as countries experimented with layered metals to combat inflation-driven wear. Ireland's version featured the harp on one side and a Celtic design on the other, though exact inspirations remain murky—some say ancient manuscripts, others just guesswork. Mintage figures are spotty; official records don't specify for this year.
The coin's edge bears a reeded pattern, which wear quickly showed wasn't foolproof in pockets full of change.
Plenty of myths circulate about its rarity, but it's common enough in collections.
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