BARCELONA -- Bermuda played its role in embracing royalty here when Prince Edward was presented with a coin from the newly released collection that recognises the Island's participation as a member of the Olympic Family.

Mr. Austin Woods, president of the Bermuda Olympic Association (BOA) made the presentation of a five-ounce $5 silver coin at the Commonwealth Games Federation reception on Tuesday night.

The first coins were put on issue by the Bermuda Monetary Authority last week with the BOA assisting in the design. Depicted on the coins within one of the five Olympic rings is a replica of luger Mr. Simon Payne, who was the first Bermudian to compete in a Winter Games this year in Albertville, France. The remaining rings are dominated by Summer Games figures.

The coins are legal tender in Bermuda and collectors have a choice between two sets. A three-coin proof set, limited edition of 250, consists of a crown size $100 gold, five-ounce $5 silver and a crown size $1 bronze coin. There is also a five-ounce silver proof, limited edition of 1,000.

"The Commonwealth Games Federation has also launched a new coin programme called the Five Ladies,'' said Mr. Woods, who is busy attending a series of meetings with BOA secretary general Mr. John Hoskins.

The Games open on Saturday and Bermuda's first participant will be swimmer Mr.

Chris Flook.

More Olympic coverage in Sports on Pages 21 & 23.