As the world embraces sustainability and ethical fashion, jewellery designers and collectors are looking for ways to create stunning, eco-friendly pieces that carry meaning and history. One of the most captivating trends emerging in the jewellery world is the repurposing of old coins into wearable art.
Transforming vintage coins into necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and earrings not only preserves history but also supports the movement towards a more sustainable and conscious fashion industry.
"Prenoa does this beautifully, with a classic and simple approach to coin jewellery. The reason for this, is we believe that coin jewellery should be wearable for decades and even lifetimes to come. Heavily stylised pieces, whilst unusual and attractive in most cases, don't always stand the test of time. They may become worn or broken if they are too complicated. They may also be too stylised to appeal to their custodians and therefore, never be worn. in contrast, Prenoa aims to put simplicity at the heart of every design, fusing ergonomics with aesthetics to create heirloom jewellery that enhances, rather than dominates. Much like a classic cut pair of jeans, or a silk shirt or brown leather handbag, Prenoa brings together all the classic elements for jewellery that will adapt to suit. We also make a donation from each and every order towards sustainability charities, bee foundations, tree planting and CO2 capturing. This enables us to reuse materials from the earth and put proceeds from those materials back into the conservation of our planet now" Rebecca - Founder of Prenoa
Why Coin Jewellery is Trending Again
Coin jewellery has long been a symbol of heritage, good fortune, and personal storytelling, but in recent years, it has made a strong comeback in modern fashion. Several factors have contributed to this resurgence:
✔ Sustainable Fashion Movement – Consumers are moving away from mass-produced accessories and opting for reclaimed, upcycled, and ethically sourced jewellery.
✔ Timeless Appeal – Coins feature intricate designs, historical value, and a sense of nostalgia that make them both fashionable and meaningful.
✔ Minimal Waste, Maximum Style – Repurposing old coins gives them a second life, reducing the need for newly mined materials and minimising environmental impact.
✔ Celebrity & Designer Influence – Luxury brands and fashion icons have been spotted wearing vintage and coin jewellery, reviving its popularity across different generations.
The Eco-Friendly Benefits of Repurposing Coins
- Reduces Mining & Environmental Damage – Mining precious metals is resource-intensive and harmful to the environment. By using old coins, jewellery makers reduce the demand for newly mined gold, silver, and other metals.
- Preserves History & Heritage – Coins often feature intricate designs and historical significance. Wearing coin jewellery allows people to carry a piece of history with them, turning artefacts into fashion statements.
- Unique & One-of-a-Kind Pieces – Unlike mass-produced jewellery, no two repurposed coin pieces are exactly alike, making each pendant or charm truly special.
- Encourages Circular Fashion – Instead of letting old coins sit unused, they are transformed into cherished keepsakes, aligning with the principles of circular fashion and conscious consumerism.
How to Style Coin Jewellery
Coin jewellery is versatile and timeless, making it a perfect addition to any wardrobe. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your style:
✨ Layered Look – Pair a delicate coin pendant necklace such as a silver threepence coin or Norwegain bee coin pendant, with other simple chains for an effortless, boho-chic look. Pair a timeworn coin like our acorns and oak leaves sixpence, with a satellite chain above it to compliment the delicacy of the sixpence.
✨ Statement Piece – Choose a bold, oversized coin medallion necklace, such as our shilling necklace or Irish twenty pence coin necklace, to be the centrepiece of your outfit.
✨ Charm Bracelets & Anklets – Add a repurposed coin charm to your existing bracelet or anklet for a vintage-inspired touch.
✨ Mixed Metals – Combine gold and silver coin pendants for an eclectic and modern jewellery stack. This looks great on products like our farthing infinity bangle and sixpence toggle necklace with gold accent.
Where to Find Ethical & Sustainable Coin Jewellery
If you're looking for eco-friendly jewellery that tells a story, repurposed coin pieces are the perfect choice. Many independent designers and vintage jewellery shops, including our collection, offer handcrafted coin jewellery made from authentic, upcycled coins. Whether you're searching for a piece from your birth year, a British sixpence for luck, or a historic shilling pendant, there is a perfect piece waiting to be discovered.
Final Thoughts: A Stylish & Conscious Choice
With years of experience, Prenoa puts sustainability at the fore-front of what we do. The shift towards sustainable fashion isn’t just about clothing—it's about making mindful choices in accessories too. Repurposing old coins into jewellery is a beautiful way to embrace eco-friendly fashion while celebrating history and modern craftsmanship, done in traditional ways.
As more people seek out unique and ethical jewellery, coin jewellery continues to shine as both a style statement and a sustainable choice.
With all the combinations of coins and stories that we associate with them, it is rare to find someone who owns the same piece because coins are a diverse and original choice.
Shop our collections today and wear a piece of British or world history in a stylish, sustainable, for many decades to come.