Modern Beauties: The Depiction of Women on Contemporary Coins
Feminine beauty has always been celebrated by artists, musicians, and other representatives of the creative sphere. The monetary industry also depicted women, and the ideals of beauty, courage, and power of their time. Nevertheless, society's perception of beauty changes, and so does numismatic art, too.
These days, the portraits of women do not come down to the idealized elegance, but to their achievements and contributions (which can be sometimes connected to the beauty sector anyway). So, how do modern coins portray female beauty? And what do these depictions reveal about the times we live in?
Beauty Standards in the Modern Era
Beauty has always been the product of its times, influenced by media, changing social values, and cultural trends. Traditional ideas of beauty today, i.e., youthfulness, symmetry, and flawless skin, in particular, live under the growing pressure from a more diverse and inclusive perspective. These days, confidence, uniqueness, and authenticity are just as important as physical appearance.
In contrast to the standards of the past decades, modern beauty means diverse representation. At the same time, standards of beauty have been impacted by technological developments. Digital filters, skincare advancements, and cosmetic enhancements have completely changed how people define and realize beauty.
Nonetheless, there is also a significant push for authenticity, as demonstrated by advertisements that celebrate flaws and promote true, unaltered photos. The contemporary woman depicted on a coin is an icon, as well as a cultural symbol, a leader, an activist, and a contributor.
Women on Modern Coins: Breaking Traditional Stereotypes
For many years, the only ways women were portrayed on coins were as goddesses, queens, or allegorical figures, i.e., idealized representations of beauty, virtue, or power, with features meticulously designed to reflect the artistic and cultural norms of their time. However, the times have changed, and the representation of women in more diverse, dynamic, and authentic ways has begun.
By the way, the idealized representation did not pass by the male figures either. A great example is the wheat penny. How much is a 1941 wheat penny worth? This totally depends on the quality of the coin and the beauty of the figure depicted. It is a sad fact, though.
One of the most notable changes in recent years is the depictions of real, historically significant women on currency, as opposed to abstract representations of femininity or beauty.
Many modern numismatic creations favor reality over exaggerated, idealized depictions, just like it was in the past. In contrast to the "perfectness" of classical numismatics, sculptures tend not to omit wrinkles, expressive faces, and distinctive ethnic characteristics. So, here are the most illustrative examples of modern coins with a new perspective of feminine beauty expressed:
Royal Figures and Political Leaders: Queen Elizabeth II (Multiple Coins, Commonwealth Nations), Queen Cleopatra VII (Ancient Egyptian Coins), Catherine the Great (Russia, Commemorative Coins).
Scientists and Pioneers: Marie Curie (Poland, 2011 Commemorative Coin), Ada Lovelace (UK, £2 Coin, 2023), Rosalind Franklin (UK, £50 Coin, 2020).
Activists and Human Rights Leaders: Rosa Parks (USA, 2022 American Women Quarters Program), Maya Angelou (USA, 2022 Quarter), Viola Desmond (Canada, $10 Banknote & Commemorative Coin, 2018).
Writers, Artists, and Cultural Icons: Jane Austen (UK, £2 Coin, 2017), Frida Kahlo (Mexico, Commemorative Coin, 2007), Edith Cavell (UK, £5 Coin, 2015).
Mythological and Allegorical Women: Liberty (USA, Various Coins, including the Gold Double Eagle and Silver Dollar), Marianne (France, Various Francs & Euros), Britannia (UK, Gold & Silver Bullion Coins).
Modern Women in Numismatics: Wilma Mankiller (USA, 2024 Quarter), Sally Ride (USA, 2022 Quarter), Eleanor Roosevelt (USA, 2023 Quarter).
The Influence of Beauty Trends on Numismatics
The way women have been portrayed on coins has mirrored the changing standards of beauty in the most distinctive manner. Originally, the ancient and classical coins depicted women with idealized, flawless features. Modern coinage, however, prefers more realistic depictions, which capture distinctive traits and natural aging patterns. The changing images of Queen Elizabeth II demonstrate this change.
Inclusive beauty is the modern beau idéal. These days, coins show ladies from various backgrounds and ethnicities, defying conventional standards of Western beauty. Besides, the latest designs include simpler, sleeker looks, whereas numismatic portrayals of women of the bygone years used to highlight intricate hairstyles and jewels instead.
Traditionally, numismatic representations of females focused on ornate hairstyles and jewels, while more recent designs showcase less complicated appearances. In most cases, the profiles of women serve as symbols of leadership, intelligence, and strength they should boast about.
Beauty cannot be defined in a single sentence. It is a complex, evolving concept that changes with time and culture. It is not about fitting into a fixed ideal, but about embracing individuality and authenticity.
So, do not strive to become the ideal – strive to be individual, and in doing so, discover your own form of beauty. Just look at the coins, and you will see how beautiful that can be.