Ryder Cup 2014: Commemorative coins to be issued

A SPECIAL commemorative set of coins and medals is to be launched to celebrate the staging of the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles later this year.

Richard Hills and Paul McGinley. Picture: Contributed

The coins are to be marketed after the Royal Mint agreed the first deal of its kind for Ryder Cup Europe.

Sculpted plaster models of the first design of the commemorative coins, featuring a sculpted Ryder Cup trophy at its centre with an elaborate background based on a thistle, have been presented to Ryder Cup director Richard Hills.

The inscription reads “Ryder Cup Scotland” with the year 2014 draped across the Ryder Cup trophy.

Shane Bissett, the 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 official 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.”

Mr Hills said: “The commemorative programme announced today 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.”

A Ryder Cup spokesman explained: “American Eagle Associates Inc. of Orlando, Florida, is the official Ryder Cup licensee for numismatics and will coordinate the distribution of the special commemorative editions worldwide.

“Ticket holders to The 2014 Ryder Cup event will have the first opportunity to own the Royal Mint commemorative editions.”

Michael Carroll, the founder of American Eagle Associates, said: “It is a privilege to participate in commemorating the spirit and ideals of the Ryder Cup, and to provide Scotland and 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, and as a proud Scottish celebration, strong appeal and demand among Ryder Cup fans, sports enthusiasts and avid collectors around the world is expected.”