A genuine 1946 coin from the year the recipient was born

Celebrate an 80th birthday with an authentic piece of Irish history. These cufflinks are made using genuine Irish sixpence coins dated 1946—the birth year of someone celebrating their 80th birthday in 2026.

Each pair is handmade in Dalkey, County Dublin, using genuine circulated coins. Small variations in colour, finish and signs of circulation may be visible. These natural differences reflect the coins’ history and help make every pair unique.

The story behind the 1946 Irish sixpence

The Irish sixpence was known in Irish as a reul. Its distinctive reverse features an Irish wolfhound designed by artist Percy Metcalfe. The other side displays the Irish harp, the word “Éire” and the year 1946.

Percy Metcalfe created the animal designs used on Ireland’s first national coin series, issued in 1928. Native Irish animals were chosen to reflect the country’s identity and agricultural heritage.

The sixpence was originally struck in nickel. Its composition changed to copper-nickel in 1942, making the 1946 coin a copper-nickel issue.

The coin measures approximately 20.8 mm in diameter and weighs approximately 4.54 grams. Irish sixpence coins remained in circulation until Ireland changed to decimal currency.

A memorable 80th birthday gift for him

These rare 1946 Irish coin cufflinks make a thoughtful 80th birthday gift for a father, grandfather, husband, partner, brother, friend or colleague.

They are particularly suitable for someone who:

• Was born in Ireland in 1946
• Has Irish family or heritage
• Appreciates Irish history
• Collects coins or historic objects
• Enjoys unusual and meaningful gifts
• Is difficult to buy for
• Wears cufflinks for weddings or other special occasions

Genuine 1946 Irish sixpence coins are now difficult to source, making these cufflinks a rare and distinctive birth-year gift.

The cufflinks are supplied in a silver-coloured presentation box and arrive ready to give.

4. Product fact box

5. Frequently asked questions

Are these genuine 1946 Irish coins?

Yes. These cufflinks are made using genuine Irish sixpence coins dated 1946, rather than reproductions. Because circulated coins are used, their condition and appearance can vary slightly.

Are these suitable for an 80th birthday in 2026?

Yes. Someone celebrating their 80th birthday in 2026 was born in 1946, making these genuine birth-year coin cufflinks a particularly meaningful gift.

What appears on the 1946 Irish sixpence?

The reverse features an Irish wolfhound designed by Percy Metcalfe. The other side displays the Irish harp, the word “Éire” and the original 1946 date.

What metal was the 1946 sixpence made from?

The 1946 Irish sixpence was made from copper-nickel. The coin had previously been struck in nickel, but its composition changed in 1942.

Are 1946 Irish sixpence coins rare?

Genuine 1946 sixpence coins are no longer in circulation and can be difficult to source in suitable condition. This makes each finished pair a rare and distinctive 80th birthday gift.

Are the cufflinks handmade in Ireland?

Yes. Each pair is handmade in Dalkey, County Dublin, Ireland.

Is a presentation box included?

Yes. A silver-coloured presentation box is included in the price, so the cufflinks arrive ready to give.

How quickly will my order be dispatched?

Orders are normally dispatched within 24 hours. Delivery within Ireland generally takes approximately two to three business days after dispatch. Delivery times are estimates and may be longer during busy periods.

Can I return the cufflinks?

Yes. The cufflinks can be returned within 30 days in accordance with our returns policy.

NFORMATION AND EVENTS FROM 1946

• Kerry won the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship after a replay against Roscommon.
• Cork defeated Kilkenny to win the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship.
• Ireland’s rural electrification programme began transforming homes and farms across the country.
• Clann na Poblachta was founded as a new Irish political party.
• The first meeting of the United Nations General Assembly was held in London.
• UNICEF was established to provide emergency assistance to children.
• The Nuremberg trials concluded with judgments against leading Nazi officials.
• The ENIAC electronic general-purpose computer was publicly unveiled.
• The bikini swimsuit was introduced in Paris.
• It’s a Wonderful Life and Alfred Hitchcock’s Notorious were released.
• Sylvester Stallone, Steven Spielberg, Alan Rickman, Freddie Mercury and Dolly Parton were born in 1946.