The silver(I) and copper(II)-imidazolium carboxylate coordination assemblies were derived from the reaction between corresponding carboxylic acid ligands and metal salts. These new metal derivatives depict a novel structural motif with variable chemical and thermal properties. These metal complexes act as potential catalysts in Ullmann coupling reactions. The imidazolium linker present in these complexes plays a role as both ligand and counter ion to balance the metal charge.[Figure not available: see fulltext.]. © 2017, Indian Academy of Sciences.