Coining it

THE launch of the designs for the new uro currency banknotes before Christmas struck terror into anyone who has lived through decimalisation and still finds him or herself muttering sadly about half crowns and shillings. However the proposed new money has brought a windfall to three Irish designers: jewellery designer Alan Ardiff, veteran graphic artist Jarlath Hayes and Conor Clarke, a director of the Design Factory. Their designs have just been shortlisted in the competition for the design of the Euro coinage. Apart from some international kudos, being shortlisted means a fee and the dream of the plum commission if the design is eventually picked in June.