Ever wonder why some countries mint odd-shaped coins? Why do some countries strike rectangular, scalloped, square, or octagonal coins? Blindness was a problem in some of the African and Asian countries back in Biblical times. Up to ten per cent of the population were born blind or became blind shortly after birth. Minting of odd-shaped coins gave them the ability to discern the denomination of any coin so they may spend wisely and get the right change back after any transaction. Today some odd-shaped coins are available in proof only and were made to attract collectors. Clinker
nice That is interesting, I have always kind of wondered if there was a reason other than design. Thanks
To some extent that is still true. Many modern circulation coins need to be suitable for vending machines - where really odd shapes such as squares or triangles would probably not work - but also for blind and vision impaired people. Therefore you have denominations which are either round but have very characteristic edges, or pieces that are octa-or-more-gonal. Christian
So, coins with holes in the center might fit the bill for present-day needs, a few countries still produce those.
acathite: Coins with holes, most often, were minted for an easy way for the public to carry them (on a string or leather cord). Australia's Holey Dollars notwithstanding. Clinker
