§ 4. Lieut.-Colonel Hydeasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many sets of Coronation coins have been issued by the Mint; and whether he is satisfied that the numbers are adequate, in view of the heavy demands of collectors for this unique coinage.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterSo far, 1,110,000 sets and 3,940,000 crowns have been issued against orders of 1,271,000 and 5,874,000 respectively. Although orders for the crown exceed the limit of five million, which my right hon. Friend mentioned in his reply to the hon. Member for Sheffield, Park (Mr. Mulley) on 30th June, all outstanding orders, both of 562 crowns and sets, will be met as soon as possible. This large issue should be adequate to meet public demand for coins of ordinary finish.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HydeIs my hon. Friend aware that there is still a considerable demand for these coins, particularly in Northern Ireland, and that any further action which he can take to satisfy this demand will be greatly appreciated by all concerned?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI am glad to say that these coins have proved extremely popular, but in view of the many other heavy commitments on the Royal Mint I am afraid that my right hon. Friend cannot go beyond the extension which he announced the other day.