They're meant to be rewarded to users who have contributed greatly to the forum while also going to active users. Therefore, it would seem unfair to give these to users who are just established etc. I feel anyone who has contributed greatly to the forum or who is an historical figure on the forum should get a coin.
I don't think I'm anywhere near a historical figure on the forum, but I am active and if by any chance I was in the running to receive a coin, I would be grateful forever. Bitcointalk means a lot to me, as do things like the Zepher coin and the silver skull I bought that he owned, and the bitcoin pennies I got from minerjones. I'd even be more than willing to pay for a coin if the price was reasonable (I don't have a lot of discretionary income right now).
As far as who should manufacture such a thing, I have to tap out on that debate. The Collectibles section gurus know a hell of a lot more about who would make a quality coin than I would. I do have faith that if these ever get minted, they'll be well-done and choice collectibles for those who are passionate about the forum.
I like the idea of funded ones but would buy one unfunded as well.
I certainly would like to see them funded, and if I were to get one I'd pay for the funding, again depending on the amount. And if they were to be unfunded I'd be completely cool with that as well.