20 Pence

Ireland's 20 pence denomination was introduced in 1986 as part of a broader decimal rationalisation, filling a practical gap between the 10p and 50p that had grown more noticeable as inflation eroded smaller coins' purchasing power. The nickel-brass alloy was chosen partly for its durability and partly to produce a visually distinctive gold-toned coin that wouldn't be confused with the silver-coloured pieces in circulation.

Mintage figures vary considerably across the series, with certain years struck in quantities too small to meet demand and later supplemented — a pattern common to Irish coinage of the period as the Central Bank repeatedly underestimated circulation requirements.