Obverse (Image: Harp)
Reverse (Image: Woodcock)
Before introducing the Euro in 2002, Ireland's currency was the Irish pound, with 100 pence equaling 1 pound (after Ireland decimalized its currency in 1971). All coins featured the Irish harp on the obverse, along with Eire (the Irish word for Ireland) and the mint date. The harp is believed to be that of Brian Boru, the most powerful king of Ireland during the Early Middle Ages.
The 50 pence piece is unique in that it is a seven-sided coin. The seven sides, however, are not straight but actually curved, making the coin easy to roll. The image on the reverse is the woodcock. Despite being a small bird, the woodcock was an important game bird in Ireland. It occasionally was part of a meal for the poorest agricultural laborers as well.
I found this site on Irish coins for anyone interested. It hasn't been updated since September 2010 but still has some very good information. Enjoy!
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