How was the U2 commemorative coin made?
Summary
Sean McGrath, the designer behind U2’s 50th-anniversary €2 commemorative coin, joins Moncrieff to discuss the creative process of designing for such a small format. He reflects on his three-decade collaboration with the band, noting how the shift from physical vinyl to digital streaming has fundamentally altered album cover aesthetics. The conversation also covers his recent work on the "Iconic Irish Voices" stamp series honoring late artists like Shane MacGowan and Christy Moore.
Topics discussed
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Introduction of guest Sean McGrath
Designing the U2 €2 commemorative coin
Selecting the iconic band photograph
Technical constraints and the Royal Dutch Mint
Winnowing process for the coin image
Sean McGrath's history with U2
Evolution of album cover design media
Impact of the internet and streaming on design
The resurgence of vinyl records
Adapting visuals for digital thumbnails
Collaboration with Gavin Friday and the band
Fluid creative process and concept development
Influence of concepts on singles and videos
Bono's open approach to art
Designing the Iconic Irish Voices stamps
Selecting portraits for the memorial stamps
Public reaction to the stamp set
Stamp production timeline and licensing
Coin availability and closing remarks
Show sign-off and sponsor reminder
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