Commemorative coin celebrating Maeve Binchy launched

The Central Bank has today launched a €15 silver proof commemorative coin celebrating the literary legacy of Irish author Maeve Binchy.

The Central Bank said the coin honours Maeve Binchy's contribution to literature and her enduring impact on readers worldwide.

The coin will go on sale today on collectorcoins.ie. There are just 3,000 coins available, and they retail at €129.95.

Designed by Antonella Napolione, the coin features a portrait of Maeve Binchy and an open book resting under the nib of a fountain pen, a symbol of her writing.

The author's signature, found on many of the front covers of books she has written, is also included on the coin.

On the left-hand side is the value of €15 The harp, year 2026 and Éire is on the opposite side of the coin.

Maeve Binchy sold more than 43 million copies of her books in 37 languages, and new translations continue to be produced since her death in 2012.

Central Bank Governor Gabriel Makhlouf said that Maeve Binchy was one of the most beloved writers this country has ever produced.

"Over an immensely successful career spanning 17 novels, three plays, numerous collections of short stories, and extensive journalism, Maeve captured the essence of Irish society," the Governor said.

"The Central Bank is proud to celebrate Maeve's remarkable literary legacy with this commemorative coin. We hope this coin serves as a tribute to an extraordinary Irish voice whose work continues to bring comfort and connection to readers everywhere," he added.