Low-coordinate complexes of the late transition metals exhibit unusual bonding and reactivity. The N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand framework has proven remarkably useful in the support of reactive complexes of copper, silver and gold. Beginning with reactive coinage metal hydrides, we have studied metal–element and metal–metal interactions with an eye toward catalysis. More recently, we are exploring copper complexes that may react analogously to heterogeneous copper(0).