For the first time, highlights from the Shanghai Mint Museum's prestigious collection of commemorative coins and medals are being showcased in London.
A landmark exhibition showcasing highlights from the Shanghai Mint Museum's prestigious collection of commemorative coins and medals has arrived in London. Titled COINect, the exhibition is now open to the public from June 8 to 14 at the historic former Royal Mint Court.
The exhibition, spanning over a century of Chinese cultural and artistic expression through coin design, is being presented outside of China for the first time.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Bi Haibo, minister counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in the UK, said the two mints in Shanghai and London, both standing by the river, make this moment of China-UK cultural dialogue more vivid and tangible.
He noted that each entry in a medal and coin design competition shown at the exhibition reflects the passionate creativity of young people from both countries, as well as their shared aspirations for a better world.
The exhibit has more than 100 sets of coins and medals from the Shanghai Mint Museum's collection on display, reflecting the institution's 105-year history. Spanning across themes like heritage, innovation, and cross-cultural dialogue, the displays include pieces inspired by cultural landmarks like the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to modern achievements in aerospace and high-speed rail. Overall, the collection reflects more than a century of design evolution.
“We are pleased to present highlights from the Shanghai Mint Museum outside of China for the first time,” said Dr. Pearl Haoqing Wang, curator of COINect. “Rather than focusing solely on monetary value, this exhibition highlights coins and medals as commemorative artifacts and historical records that preserve collective memory and cultural values.”
Professor Trevor Hoey, provost of Brunel University London, highlighted the enduring influence of innovative design in his remarks at the event. He reflected on the legacy of coinage through history, noting that both ancient and modern examples demonstrate how thoughtful design can transcend time, lasting across centuries and generations.
According to the event introduction, several interactive elements are designed to enhance the visitor experience, including digital displays, hands-on design activities, and a public vote for the Our Water UK-China Youth Coin Design Competition, with the winning entry to be minted.
