A new Kiwi coin for a new princess

NZ Post is issuing this commemorative coin for the birth of the royal princess, depicting a pram and the birth date with a silver fern and English rose intertwined on the rim. Photo / supplied

A new coin is being minted in New Zealand to commemorate the birth of the royal princess.

The newest royal, whose name is not yet known, was born at 8.34am on Saturday UK time (7.34pm NZT) weighing 8lbs and 3oz (3.7kg) - less than three hours after the Duchess of Cambridge was admitted to hospital.

There will be 1000 coins made depicting a traditional baby carriage and the birth date, with a silver fern and English rose intertwined on the rim. The design has been approved by Buckingham Palace.

New Zealand Post spokesman Simon Allison said the decision to mint the coin reflects the "huge affection" Kiwis have towards the royal couple.

The new coin has already generated a lot of overseas interest but New Zealanders would get the first chance to purchase one, Mr Allison said.

The coin to commemorate Prince George's birth sold out within two weeks and New Zealand Post was expecting a lot of interest this time around, he said.

"There's a certain mana or status about this coin," Mr Allison said.

"There's bound to be other memorabilia out there but a coin that's officially by New Zealand has a lot of sentimental value. There's something special about Wills and Kate and the public has really connected with them."

A coin was also minted by New Zealand Post to mark the birth of Prince George in 2013, incorporating a stylised koru, which sold out quickly.

The organisation is the only official issuer of legal tender commemorative coins in New Zealand.

Delivery of the new coin is expected in July and coins are available for pre-order.

Go to nzpost.co.nz/coins for more information.