The Irish 1966 Threepence coin, designed by Mary Gwynn, features a depiction of a bird in flight, symbolizing freedom and progress. Struck in cupronickel, the Irish 1966 Threepence marked a period of economic transformation as Ireland prepared for decimalization, which would occur in 1971.
In 1966, Ireland was transitioning from the old Irish pound system to a more modern monetary structure. The Irish 1966 Threepence, with its cupronickel composition, represented this shift. Gwynn’s design reflected Ireland’s aspirations for growth and modernization during a time of political and economic change, as the country approached a new era in its financial system.