The One Penny Wedding Ring

Creating the One Penny Wedding Ring

The original Afghan coin that was used to fashion the wedding ring
The original Afghan coin that was used to fashion the wedding ring.

A few months ago, one of our clients approached us for help. He was serving with the armed forces in Afghanistan. Over a period of 3 months, he created by-hand, a simple wedding ring from nothing more than a coin.

Using just a hammer, the coin was beaten into the basic shape
Using just a hammer, the coin was beaten into the basic shape

The basic ring evolved without specific jewellery making skills or tools. Just a rock and hammer to beat the shape of the ring. A round file was then used to bore out the centre. The results were then refined with a small square of sandpaper.

Once the ring was formed, the centre was filed away to leave the basic wedding ring.
Once the ring was formed, the centre was filed away to leave the basic wedding ring.

The idea itself came about during a discussion. His partner (who hates being spoilt with expensive gifts) responded to a question.

The man responsible for fashioning the ring, working around his daily life to create the one penny wedding ring
The man responsible for fashioning the ring, working around his daily life to create the one penny wedding ring

“I will be away for Christmas – what do you want me to get you?” Asked Ben.

“A penny.” Replied his partner. This was the least expensive thing she could think of.

From here, the concept of the one-penny wedding ring was born.

Our part in this involved a little help adjusting the ring to the correct finger size. We also applied the final polished finish to complete the ring. The final photograph shows the end result. Contrary to many of the other articles, the ring received no plating, this was the natural body metal of the coin itself. The ring received a beautiful mirror finish as the final end result shows below.

The finished penny wedding ring, polished and sized.
The finished penny wedding ring, polished and sized.

Update – April 2014

Following our blog, the story has appeared in the various press. This is no surprise, considering the story and concept behind this unusual wedding ring. Earlier this week, the story was covered by the Daily Mail alongside other publications.

About Mark Johnson

My name is Mark and I'm founder at Serendipity Diamonds. By day you'll find me working in our showroom—in a variety of roles. My work (which I love) ranges from photographing jewellery, to writing blog posts and helping clients with my colleagues Drina, Emily and Debbie.

About Mark Johnson

My name is Mark and I'm founder at Serendipity Diamonds. By day you'll find me working in our showroom—in a variety of roles. My work (which I love) ranges from photographing jewellery, to writing blog posts and helping clients with my colleagues Drina, Emily and Debbie.