The Commonwealth Games organisers in Birmingham have signed a licencing agreement with The Royal Mint and Royal Mail to produce commemorative coins and stamps for the event this summer.
Birmingham 2022 and CGF Partnerships have reached an agreement to host the Games for the third time in England. CGF Partnerships, a joint venture formed in 2017 by the Commonwealth Games Federation and the SPORTFIVE agency, is in charge of identifying commercial partnerships for the Games.
The previous two editions in England (Manchester in 2002 and London in 1934) were commemorated with collectible Royal Mail stamps and Royal Mint coins.
The Royal Mint and Royal Mail have been granted exclusive rights to create a series of Birmingham 2022-themed coins and stamps for the event, which will take place from July 28 to August 8.
Birmingham 2022 announced that a special 50-pence coin will be inspired by the city’s foundation of innovation, creativity, and architecture. The coin, designed by Natasha Preece of the Royal Mint, features the iconic design of the Library of Birmingham and was released on January 4 as part of the Royal Mint’s 2022 Annual Sets.
The coin collection will include one main coin design in a variety of precious metals, as well as base metal designs featuring coins from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, as well as a Home Nations set.
The specifics of the special stamps will be revealed closer to the start of the Games. In July, coins and stamps will be available for purchase at post offices, the official Birmingham 2022 retail stores, and online.
Ian Reid, Chief Executive of Birmingham 2022, said, “These very special coins and stamps will be a perfect reminder of the excitement and thrill people will have by being part of Birmingham 2022.
“Both the Royal Mint and Royal Mail are organisations who have excellent international reputations, and the partnerships are a perfect fit for our incredible global event. The commemorative sets are a wonderful way to celebrate the Games and for the whole country to get involved in Birmingham 2022 and our festival of sport and culture.”