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The Coins That Nearly Didn’t Exist: The Unique Story Behind the Tutankhamun Treasures 50p Set
In 1922, the world was captivated by the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb – a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian artefacts buried beneath the sands of time.
Over 100 years later, that moment has been honoured with a remarkable set of 50p coins – The Tutankhamun Treasures BU 50p Collection.
Approved by TWO monarchs and featuring THREE distinct dates, these coins carry a story as compelling as the artefacts they commemorate…
Watch our latest video below to discover the story behind the Tutankhamun Treasures BU 50p Set.
Approved by TWO monarchs
Originally approved by Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, the Tutankhamun Treasures 50p Coins were among the very last coins to receive her approval before her sad passing in September 2022.
But the change in monarchy put everything on pause. To proceed, the coins needed to be resubmitted to Buckingham Palace and King Charles III.
And in early 2023, the coins were officially reauthorised for release by King Charles III – now bearing His Majesty’s effigy by Glyn Davies, these were the FIRST 50p coins ever issued with this portrait.
Featuring THREE distinct dates
The unusual journey that these coins took to be released has created a truly rare collecting quirk – each coin features three different years!
- 1922 – Marking the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb
- 2022 – When Queen Elizabeth II first approved the coins
- 2023 – When King Charles III re-authorised the coins for release
Triple-dated coins are exceptionally uncommon in numismatic history. In fact, the most comparable example was the Team GB 50p issued after the delayed 2020 Olympics – and that became one of the most sought-after coins of its year.
Time is running out…
We’re now down to our last remaining stocks of the Tutankhamun Treasures 50p Set, which means it won’t be long until these coins are lost to the sands of time…
Each coin in the collection has been struck to a Brilliant Uncirculated finish and features an ancient artefact that was discovered in Tutankhamun’s Tomb – including his iconic Death Mask, the Anubis Shrine, a Pendant, a Corselet and a model of the young pharaoh’s torso.
The Battle of Britain: 10 Key Facts You Need to Know
The Battle of Britain was one of the most crucial turning points of the Second World War. It wasn’t just a fight for control of the skies—it was a battle for Britain’s survival. Here are ten essential facts you should know about this defining moment in history, including some fascinating “Did You Know?” insights.
1. The Battle of Britain was the First Major Military Campaign Fought Entirely in the Air
The Battle of Britain, fought between July and October 1940, was the first time in history that a battle was waged exclusively by air forces. The Royal Air Force (RAF) defended the UK against the German Luftwaffe in a high-stakes aerial showdown.
Did You Know?
The battle was named by Winston Churchill before it had even begun, referencing Hitler’s plan to invade the UK: “The Battle of France is over. The Battle of Britain is about to begin.”
2. Operation ‘Sealion’ Hinged on German Air Superiority
Germany’s plan to invade Britain—code-named Operation Sealion—depended on the Luftwaffe destroying the RAF. Without air superiority, the Germans knew any invasion across the English Channel would fail.
3. Britain’s Secret Weapon: The Dowding System
Britain’s air defence was organised under a revolutionary command-and-control system led by Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding. The system combined radar detection, telephone lines, and observer reports to direct fighter squadrons efficiently.
Did You Know?
The UK was the first country to operationally use radar in wartime, giving RAF pilots crucial minutes to scramble and intercept enemy aircraft.
4. The RAF Was Outnumbered But Not Outclassed
Though the Luftwaffe had more aircraft and pilots, the RAF had the home advantage, fighting over familiar territory and with access to rapid repairs and reinforcements.
Fact Check:
At the height of the battle, the Luftwaffe deployed over 2,500 aircraft compared to around 750 from the RAF.
5. The Iconic Aircraft: Spitfires and Hurricanes
The RAF’s key fighters—the Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane—became legendary. While the Spitfire dazzled with speed and agility, the Hurricane was a sturdy workhorse that shot down more enemy aircraft overall.
6. The Battle of Britain Was Fought in Phases
The battle unfolded in distinct phases:
- July–August 1940: Attacks on coastal shipping and radar stations.
- August–September: Full assault on RAF airfields.
- September onwards: Bombing of London and cities—The Blitz.
Did You Know?
The shift to bombing London gave the RAF vital time to recover and refocus defenses—this strategic error likely cost the Germans the battle.
7. ‘The Few’ Were Many Nations
More than 2,900 pilots fought for the RAF. While the majority were British, pilots came from Poland, Canada, New Zealand, Czechoslovakia, South Africa, and even the United States.
Did You Know?
No. 303 Polish Squadron was one of the top-scoring units of the entire battle, despite joining combat later than others.
8. During the Battle of Britain the Human Cost Was High
During the battle, over 500 RAF pilots were killed. On the German side, more than 1,800 aircrew lost their lives. Many pilots were barely in their twenties—some even teenagers.
9. It Was Hitler’s First Major Defeat
By the end of October 1940, Germany had failed to gain air superiority. Operation Sealion was indefinitely postponed, and Britain remained free from invasion. This was the first major defeat for Hitler’s forces in the war.
10. “Never Was So Much Owed…”
Winston Churchill immortalised the RAF’s defense with one of history’s most iconic quotes:
“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”
Did You Know?
The phrase “The Few” is still used today to honor RAF personnel, and the Battle of Britain is officially commemorated in the UK every September 15th.
Conclusion
The Battle of Britain was more than a clash of aircraft—it was a symbol of courage, innovation, and resilience. These ten facts only scratch the surface of a story that continues to inspire. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious reader, remembering the sacrifices and triumphs of “The Few” helps keep their legacy alive.
The £5 Coin Celebrating 350 Years of the Royal Observatory Greenwich
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of Britain’s greatest scientific landmarks. Established in 1675, it became the cornerstone for global navigation and timekeeping. And now, this remarkable legacy is captured in an equally remarkable £5 coin — a design that pays tribute to centuries of exploration, astronomy, and engineering.
Whether you’re a passionate numismatist or simply intrigued by the wonders of science, this coin is worth a closer look.
A Landmark in British Coin Design
At first glance, this isn’t just a commemorative piece — it’s a statement of precision. The design is deeply symbolic, dividing the surface into two distinct yet interconnected halves.
Running vertically through the centre is the Prime Meridian, the global reference point for time and space, originating at Greenwich. This bold line doesn’t just split the coin — it connects hemispheres and disciplines.
East: Gazing Upwards
On one side, the emphasis is celestial. The Great Equatorial Telescope dome of the Royal Observatory rises beneath a starry sky, where Ursa Minor and the North Star remind us of centuries of cosmic observation and navigation.
West: Mastering Time
Opposite, the design moves from stars to seconds. Intricate mechanisms represent Clock B, a pioneering free-swinging pendulum clock by Martin Burgess, renowned for its unmatched accuracy. It’s a tribute to human ingenuity — where measuring time became an art and a science.
Strictly Limited Editions
Each version of the coin has been officially approved by King Charles III, with limited edition quantities that are already generating excitement among collectors:
- Proof £5 Coin – Affordable and accessible, available now
- Silver Proof Edition – Extremely limited, under 1,000 worldwide
- Silver 5oz Specification – Just 350 minted, crafted in pure silver for collectors who appreciate the artistry in full scale
🌐 Explore the full range here: www.westminstercollection.com/observatory5
A Timeless Tribute
More than a coin, this is a celebration of where science changed the world. It honours not just the Royal Observatory, but the relentless pursuit of knowledge that placed Britain at the centre of global time and space.