Cape Town Presents MDC 2025 Coin Awards

The 32nd Mint Directors Conference (MDC) has recently concluded in Cape Town, South Africa. The event hosted the MDC Coin Awards, which were presented during the MDC Gala Dinner at Cape Point Vineyards.

The Coin Awards recognise industry achievements in the design, production, packaging, and distribution of commemorative and circulating coins worldwide and were made in six different categories, two of which are covered here.

Best Circulating Coin or Coin Series

In this category, The US Mint was awarded the winning prize for its ninth American Women Quarter™ issue honouring Mexican-American journalist, activist, teacher, and suffragist Jovita Idar. The reverse design of the coin depicts Idar in the centre with her hands clasped; inscribed within her body are several phrases depicting some of her greatest achievements and the regional newspapers that she contributed to.

Second place went to Monnaie de Paris for its new 10, 20, and 50 cent circulating coins. These three coins honour three exceptional women – Simone Veil (10 cents), Joséphine Baker (20 cents), and Marie Curie (50 cents) – who were all pantheonized for their many contributions to France’s influence.