The Irish 1935 Penny, designed by Percy Metcalfe, featured a hen and chicks on the reverse, symbolizing Ireland’s agricultural roots. Struck in bronze (95% copper, 4% tin, 1% zinc), it reflected the country’s economic reliance on farming. Post-independence, Ireland was working to establish its own identity and economic stability, and the 1935 Penny became a key part of national circulation, aiding in everyday trade.
Politically, Ireland’s independence (1922) was solidifying, and the Irish 1935 Penny represented a move away from British coinage. Economically, the country faced challenges like the Great Depression, making durable and affordable coins essential. Metcalfe’s design symbolized both tradition and a fresh start for the nation.