A coin necklace has a charm that never fades; unless you accidentally drop the coin in the couch cushions, then it’s gone for good. Luckily, this DIY coin necklace is safe from that fate, because it’s staying right where it belongs: around my neck!Whenever I spot a coin that catches my eye, I think of my dad and his coin collection -carefully tucked away in a safety deposit box, never to be enjoyed. My grandmother took a different approach; the year I was born, she bought a silver dollar and had it set into a necklace. That piece has since been lost, but it inspired me to give these small, often forgotten treasures a second life as jewelry that sparks conversation and makes any outfit way more interesting.

Old coins represent stories of places, people, and moments in time. Turn them into jewelry and they become more than currency; they’re keepsakes you can wear!

Creative Craft Hop

Before we get to the tutorial, it’s time for another Creative Craft blog hop hosted this month by my wonderful co-host Donna from Modern on Monticello!

If you are visiting from Gail at Purple Hues and Me, welcome! Wasn’t her twinkling wire pumpkin magical?! At the very bottom of this post, we’ll be directing you to the next stop on this venture. But don’t forget to check out the other stops too because you’ll find plenty more ideas. Be sure to drop back in throughout the week to visit them all!

The gorgeous coin you’ll see in the reveal is a 2020 commemorative $2 ‘Toonie’ featuring the incredible Haida Grizzly Bear, Xhuwaji, designed by the legendary artist Bill Reid. The stunning artwork, originally painted in 1988, is featured in the middle of the coin.

Because it’s true to the original work, the colour version of the Toonie is my favourite. However, the Royal Canadian Mint also created a solid gold version and silver and gold coin as you can see here.

Would you let this beauty jingle around with lint and old receipts when it could be front and centre, turning heads? Some coins are meant for buying coffee; I can see this one fitting in on a catwalk.

Hook, Line and Toonie

Just in case the fashion police start working with the actual police, no laws were broken in the making of this necklace. This Toonie coin is completely unharmed and ready to return to circulation whenever the need strikes; though it may be disappointed that I’ve given up coffee. With a few simple tools and some creativity, you can upcycle loose change into a necklace that’s worth far more than its face value. All without defacing it!

When I first joined The Style Makers Network to get over my creative block, the idea of making jewelry felt intimidating. Then it hit me; I just needed to stick to my original mission of upcycling. While the other members were busy dreaming up beaded jewelry designs, I was looking around for things I could repurpose, and Hub’s stash of sewing findings didn’t disappoint.

At first I found the silver pieces you see above. But I really want to pull some colours out of the artwork on the coin, so opted for these black vintage hooks and eyes instead.

Materials

[If you’re looking for some of the things we used, we’ve got you covered (disclosure): The blue links in this post may be affiliate links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases which we proudly donate to Alzheimer’s research. But don’t worry, you don’t pay a cent more! Thanks for helping to support our fundraiser!]

• Coin of your choice
• Hooks and Eyes
• Jewelry wire
• Black chain (this one is finer and comes with the lobster claws)
• Black lobster clasp (if needed)
• Jump rings: silver (14 mm) and 8 mm orange/red
• Chain nose jewelry pliers

Coin Necklace Enclosure

To start, I built an enclosure around the star of the show. 

Evenly distribute four black sewing hooks, then wire them together at the back to hug it in place. Make sure to tuck the end of the wire in well so it doesn’t snag..

Jump Rings

Now we’re ready for even more colour to compliment the coin!

First, use two chain nose pliers to open and add silver jump rings to each of the four hooks. 

And five orange jump rings on each silver one to echo the beautiful orangey-red colour on the coin and close them up again. 

The whole pendant hangs from an old black chain originally found at the hardware store.  Add a clasp closure to the back. 

Talk about making cents of your materials! This is bold, unconventional, and purely wearable Canadian mint. It’s easy on the wallet and lightens the change purse; a change worth making!

I’m really looking forward to wearing this stunning piece of Canadian art at Hub’s upcoming retirement party. Even after all these years, I still consider myself an introvert and I’m not one to make small talk. So this quirky coin necklace might just be the icebreaker I need. Before you know it, everyone’s asking where I found such a cool piece, and just like that, I’m part of the conversation without having to work too hard. Well, that’s the plan anyway!

For more upcycled necklace inspiration, check out this adult bib that doubles as jewelry, vintage button necklace, and celtic knot necklace.

Fall Into Fabulous

One of the things I love most about blogging is connecting with other makers. And this Fall we’ve created something truly inspiring together: 16 digital goodies from top creators — planners, recipes, colouring books  & more — including our Beginner Crochet e-Book!

Grab it now — the bundle is only available for a limited time at this price: use the coupon code FALLFUN to get it for $9.99! 

As always, every dollar of our commission goes straight to Alzheimer’s research, so treat yourself knowing that you’re making a real difference! Let’s make this Fall fabulous and full of hope. 💜

Pin Coin Necklace

If you found this project inspiring or helpful, why not share the love? Pinning is a great way to support our charitable work and helps others discover creative ideas too! Just click the Pin button and save it to your favourite board; you’ll be able to find it later when you’re ready to try it yourself. Every pin makes a big difference and keeps the creativity flowing!

Creative Craft Hop

Now it’s time to check out this Thrifted Candle Revival from Terrie at Decorate and More with Tip. When you’re done, please remember to visit these other amazing talents below:

• Thrifted Candle Revival
• Easy To Make DIY Wood Biscuit Pumpkin Shadow Boxes
• DIY Fall Decoupage Chargers with an Autumn Leaf Design
• How to Crochet Chenille Daisies
• Twinkling Bling Floral Wire Pumpkin

Coin Necklace FAQs

How to turn an old coin into a necklace?

For an easy DIY using upcycled sewing notions, distribute 4 sewing hooks around the coin. Criss cross wire on the back to secure. Add a jump ring around one of the hooks and then embellish with more jump rings. Lastly, add a chain.

Are Coin Necklaces in Style?

Coin necklace have had a strong comeback over the last few years because they combine vintage charm with modern wearability. You’ll see them in a lot of fashion collections, from high-end designer lines to handmade Etsy shops. Here’s why they’re trending:

• Timeless appeal; coins have been used as jewelry for centuries, so they never truly go out of style.
• Story factor; people love jewelry with meaning, history, or a personal connection.
• Layering trend; coin necklaces work perfectly with the layered necklace look that’s still very popular.
• Customization; vintage, foreign, commemorative, and even custom-made coins give endless style options.
• Sustainable fashion; upcycled coin necklaces tap into the eco-conscious accessory trend.

Why do people wear coin necklaces?

People wear coin necklaces for a mix of style, sentiment, and symbolism. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Fashion statement; coin necklaces are trendy, versatile, and pair well with both casual and dressy outfits.
• History & heritage; coins can connect to a specific place, culture, or era.
• Travel memories; a way to turn foreign coins from a trip into a keepsake you can wear.
• Good luck & symbolism; many coins are seen as tokens of luck, prosperity, or protection.
• Personal meaning; using a coin tied to a date, event, or loved one adds sentimental value.
• Sustainable style; upcycling coins into jewelry supports eco-friendly fashion.