Princess Charlotte's Christening: Royal Mint Unveils Christening Coin
Prince William and Princess Kate's daughter will be christened on July 5.
— -- The final countdown to Sunday’s christening of Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Cambridge kicked off today with the release of the newborn princess’ christening coin.
The coin’s decoration of harp-playing cherubs surrounded by swags of lilies is a symbol of the link between 2-month-old Princess Charlotte and her nearly 2-year-old brother, Prince George, whose christening coin also featured two harp-playing cherubs and the lily font traditionally used for royal christenings.
The christening coins for both Princess Charlotte and Prince George were designed by the same engraver, John Bergdahl, the U.K. Royal Mint said today.
At the center of Princess Charlotte’s coin is the inscription, “To celebrate the Christening of Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Cambridge 2015.”
Princess Charlotte, who was born May 2 in London, will be christened July 5 at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the queen’s Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.
The coin will retail for around $7. Its design was approved by Charlotte’s parents, Prince William and Princess Kate, and her grandmother, the queen, according to the Royal Mint.
Royal followers will have the choice to purchase the new coin in either silver – which follows the tradition of silver to confer good health and prosperity – or gold, which marks the royal celebration.
The christening coin is the second coin commissioned in Princess Charlotte's honor. The Royal Mint also released a commemorative coin to celebrate Charlotte’s birth.