The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
First Ryder Cup coin unveiled
THE RYDER Cup at Gleneagles is to be commemorated in a special set of coins and medals — the first time the Royal Mint has agreed such a deal for the competition.
Sculpted plaster models of the first design of the commemorative coin — featuring a Ryder Cup trophy in the centre with an elaborate background based on a thistle — have been presented to Ryder Cup director Richard Hills.
The models are inscribed “Ryder Cup Scotland”, with a banner bearing the year, 2014, draped across the Ryder Cup trophy.
Shane Bissett, director of Commemorative Coin at the Royal Mint, said: “The Royal Mint is proud to be producing the first-ever official commemorative coins of the Ryder Cup.
“We have enjoyed a long-running tradition of marking major international sporting events, including the recent production of the Victory medals and off icial host-nation commemorative coins for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Now, with the unveiling of the official 2014 Ryder Cup commemorative coin, we are delighted that golf fans around the world will be able to own a lasting memento to remind them of this historic event.”
With a history that stretches back more than 1,000 years, the Royal Mint is one of the world’s oldest manufacturing organisations and today makes all circulating coinage for the United Kingdom and more than 50 countries all over the world, as well as commemorative coins and medals.
Mr Hills said: “The commemorative prog ramme announced t o d ay demonstrates the significance of the Ryder Cup — which continues to grow in popularity and prestige. “The artistry brought to The 2014 Ryder Cup through the Royal Mint’s commemorative coin can only enhance the reputation and reach of the event.”
Ticket holders to The 2014 Ryder Cup will have the first opportunity to own the Royal Mint commemorative editions. Michael J Carroll, founder of American Eagle Associates, Inc, a leading specialist firm that will distribute the Ryder Cup collection abroad, said: “It is a privilege to participate in commemorating the spirit and ideals of the Ryder Cup, and to provide the world with the opportunity to access this global event through the timeless art and artistry of the Royal Mint.
“As the first commemorative programme of its kind, strong appeal and demand among Ryder Cup fans, sports enthusiasts and avid collectors around the world is expected.”