Coins Reimagined: Mamusa Revives an Ancient Tradition

Green dollars to match the emeralds that surround them. Mamusa – a Milan-based brand founded by young designer Maria Luisa Mamusa – has chosen the face of George Washington, symbol of the quintessential American banknote, to create jewelry that is truly unique. Portions of dollar bills become “portraits”, framed by gold and precious stones, while coins are transformed into pendants to be displayed and interpreted in their many details. Engravings, symbols, dates and effigies of figures who marked an era are enhanced by skilled artisans, who give them a new aesthetic and, above all, a new functional identity. Using coins as jewelry is an ancient tradition dating back to Ancient Rome and Greece, and even earlier to Persian and Egyptian cultures, where sesterces and other coins were worn with pride as a sign of allegiance to the emperor—much like wearing a political badge today. The use of vintage coins in jewelry was revived in the early 20th century by Bulgari and later reinterpreted several times by luxury brands through buckles and accessories inspired by this classic motif. Mamusa, however, introduces a completely new approach, extending decorative value to paper money itself. In this way, a fragment of history becomes a precious object: sometimes pop, sometimes solemn and symbolic, almost a talisman to be cherished or playfully styled in an outfit rich in personality. The result is a new narrative that takes its cue from a banknote—an everyday object reimagined in a contemporary language, defined by the clean, linear aesthetics of today’s design.

Dinai Dollar pendant in gold with emeralds and Dinai Dollar pendant in gold.