Notable News (February 4-9, 2026)

This week’s headlines include Kenya’s crackdown on cash bouquets, a disliked Royal Australian Mint commemorative, upcoming CCAC meeting, and U.S. Mint price updates.

Kenya’s central bank has warned Valentine’s Day gift-givers that bouquets made of cash are illegal. Offenders who damage currency by gluing or pinning bank notes risk prosecution, fines, or jail for defacing money. 

Getty Images/George Khelashvili

Two Royal Australian Mint commemoratives honoring the centenary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth have received widespread criticism, with one commenter comparing the queen’s unflattering portrait to the movie character Mrs. Doubtfire. Despite debate, the $5 silver proof version sold out, with a limited number remaining of the 50-cent pieces.

Photo: Royal Australian Mint

The Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee will meet by videoconference on February 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. The group will discuss the designs for multiple coin programs, including the 2027 Working Dog Commemoratives and American Youth Sports quarters. The meeting will stream live on the U.S. Mint’s YouTube channel.

Photo: Getty Images/Mihajlo Maricic

The U.S. Mint published its updated numismatic prices, effective January 20, on February 6 in the Federal Register. The prices of clad coins increased between 25 percent to 274 percent, while silver issues rose 33 percent to 86 percent, reflecting higher silver prices.

Photo: U.S. Mint