The Rare Brexit 50p: Have you got one?

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If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering, “Do I own this incredibly rare 50p?”. Well here’s some background information: After the historic 2016 referendum, the UK officially left the European Union on 31st January 2020. To mark this pivotal moment in modern British history, the Brexit 50p—also known as the UK Withdrawal from the EU 50p—was issued. However, due to multiple delays and deferrals, three distinct versions exist, making it one of the most fascinating modern coin releases.

The Three Brexit 50p Coins

The 29th March 2019 Brexit 50p

In 2018, it was announced that a commemorative 50p would be struck to mark the UK’s departure from the EU, originally scheduled for 29th March 2019. The coin’s design was revealed by the Treasury on social media, featuring the inscription “Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations” alongside the planned withdrawal date.

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HM Treasury revealed the original Brexit 50p design on X (then Twitter)

However, after Brexit was postponed, only 1,000 coins with this date were minted. Of these, 990 were melted down, leaving just 10 surviving examples securely held by The Royal Mint. None of these coins were released into circulation, making them impossible to find in change.

Rare 50p – Worth Over £40,000!

As the UK’s departure was rescheduled for 31st October 2019, The Royal Mint struck over one million new Brexit 50ps featuring the revised date. Yet, history repeated itself, and on 28th October 2019, Brexit was delayed once more. As a result, the vast majority of these coins were melted down before they could enter circulation.

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However, against all odds, two examples have surfaced in circulation, making them some of the rarest and most valuable 50ps ever discovered.

Given their extreme rarity, these coins are estimated to be worth over £40,000 each, according to numismatic specialists at Spink and Son auction house! Their discovery has been described as a “Golden Ticket moment”, emphasising their significance in the world of coin collecting. With only two known examples in existence, they could potentially break records for a UK circulating coin should they ever go to auction.

The 31st January 2020 Brexit 50p

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With Brexit finally taking place on 31st January 2020, The Royal Mint once again revised the 50p design to reflect the correct date. This version entered circulation as intended, with 10,001,000 coins released.

How Rare Is the Brexit 50p?

While the 31st January 2020 Brexit 50p is an important historical coin, its mintage of over 10 million means it is not particularly rare. In contrast, the 31st October 2019 Brexit 50ps are some of the rarest modern UK coins, with just two known examples in existence—and an estimated value of over £40,000 each, according to numismatic specialists at Spink and Son auction house!

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A Rare and Controversial 50p Coin

The Brexit 50p sparked debate beyond its rarity. Some critics, including author Sir Philip Pullman, objected to the lack of an Oxford comma in the coin’s inscription, arguing that “Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations” should have included a comma after “prosperity.”

Despite the controversy, the Brexit 50p remains a fascinating piece of numismatic history, marking a significant political moment and offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a coin with an unusual backstory.

Could There Be More £40,000 Brexit 50ps Out There?

With only two known examples of the ultra-rare 31st October 2019 Brexit 50p discovered so far, it raises the thrilling possibility that more could be waiting to be found. Collectors are being urged to check their change—you might just strike gold!

>>> You can buy the 2020 UK Brexit CERTIFIED BU 50p by clicking here <<<

UK’s Rarest 50p Coins

If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re wondering if that 50p rattling around in your wallet could be one of the rarest 50p coins in the UK. And you might be right!

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The 50p coin isn’t just a masterpiece of design—its unique heptagonal shape has been a canvas for celebrating Britain’s history, culture, and achievements since 1969. But among the countless coins in circulation, a few rare gems have captured the imagination of collectors everywhere.

Could your 50p be one of these sought-after treasures? From iconic designs to mintage mysteries, find out what makes certain 50p coins worth far more than their face value.

Let’s dive into the ten rarest 50p coins in UK circulation today, how many have been struck, and what makes them so special.


1. Atlantic Salmon 50p (2023)

Mintage: 200,000

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The rarest 50p in circulation – 2023 Atlantic Salmon 50p

As one of the newest coins on this list, the Atlantic Salmon 50p holds the crown as the rarest 50p in circulation. Released in November 2023, it’s part of the first definitive coin set featuring King Charles III. Highlighting conservation efforts, this design celebrates the majestic Atlantic salmon, which faces threats like habitat loss and climate change. With its mintage lower than even the iconic Kew Gardens 50p, this coin has quickly become a collector’s dream.

You can own the 2023 Atlantic Salmon BU 50p as part of the 2023 Official BU Presentation Pack! Click buy now to secure your set.

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2. Kew Gardens 50p (2009)

Mintage: 210,000

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The incredibly rare – 2009 Kew Gardens 50p

The legendary Kew Gardens 50p reigned as the rarest circulating coin for over a decade. Its intricate design by Christopher Le Brun features the iconic Chinese pagoda, encircled by climbing vines. This coin’s rarity stems from the low demand for 50p coins in 2009, leading to an exceptionally small mintage. Its value among collectors is unparalleled, with some selling for as much as £700 today. While a 2019 reissue exists, it’s the original 2009 edition that remains the most sought after.


3. Olympic Football 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,125,500

Olympic Football 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Football 50p

This coin from the London 2012 Olympics collection offers a playful twist on a classic sport. Designed by sports journalist Neil Wolfson, its reverse explains the notoriously tricky “offside rule” using a football tactics board. With only 1,125,500 minted, this coin is not only a collector’s item but a quirky keepsake for football fans.


4. Olympic Wrestling 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,129,500

Olympic Wrestling 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins

London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Wrestling 50p

Another standout from the Olympic 50p series, this coin celebrates the ancient sport of wrestling. Designed by Roderick Enriquez, the dynamic image captures a wrestler mid-throw against a futuristic stadium backdrop. Its low mintage and unique depiction of a historic sport make it a prized piece for collectors.


5. Olympic Judo 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,161,500

Olympic Judo 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Judo 50p

Judo, a sport of precision and power, takes centre stage on this Olympic coin. Designed by David Cornell, it depicts two athletes locked in a dramatic throw, with intricate details that showcase their flowing uniforms and dynamic movement. With its low mintage, this coin is as competitive to find as the sport it represents.


6. Olympic Triathlon 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,163,500

Olympic Triathlon 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Triathlon 50p

Designed by Sarah Harvey, this coin captures the endurance and determination of triathletes, with representations of swimming, cycling, and running seamlessly integrated into one striking design. The sweeping lines give a sense of motion, making this coin a fitting tribute to one of the toughest Olympic sports.


7. Peter Rabbit 50p (2018)

Mintage: 1,400,000

Peter Rabbit 50p 2018 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
Beatrix Potter’s beloved character – 2018 Peter Rabbit 50p

Beatrix Potter’s beloved character, Peter Rabbit, has charmed collectors and fans alike. Designed by Emma Noble, this coin shows Peter munching on radishes, bringing his mischievous personality to life. As one of the rarer coins in the Beatrix Potter collection, it’s a cherished addition to any collection.


8. Flopsy Bunny 50p (2018)

Mintage: 1,400,000

Flopsy Bunny 50p 2018 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
Peter Rabbit’s sister – 2018 Flopsy Bunny 50p

Flopsy Bunny, Peter Rabbit’s sister, made her debut on UK coinage in this delightful design by Emma Noble. Her distinctive cape and whimsical charm capture the essence of Beatrix Potter’s illustrations. With the same mintage as her brother, Flopsy Bunny is equally elusive in circulation.


9. Olympic Tennis 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,454,000

Olympic Tennis 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Tennis 50p

This coin gained prominence after Andy Murray’s historic Olympic gold medal win in 2012. Designed by Tracey Baines, it features a simple yet elegant depiction of a tennis ball flying over a net, symbolising the grace and power of the sport. With its low mintage, it remains a treasured piece of Olympic memorabilia.


10. Olympic Goalball 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,615,500

Olympic Goalball 50p 2011 - UK&#8217;s Rarest 50p Coins
London 2012 Olympics collection – 2011 Olympic Goalball 50p

Designed by Jonathan Wren, this coin celebrates goalball, a Paralympic sport that combines skill and strategy. Its striking design shows an athlete mid-throw, highlighting the dynamism of the sport. Though its mintage is higher than others on this list, its rarity in circulation still makes it a valuable find.

The 2011 Olympic Goalball 50p is available to own by clicking here.


Have You Got Any of These Rare 50p Coins?

If so, that’s incredible! Owning one of these sought-after coins is a real achievement for any collector. But the journey doesn’t have to end there—why not take it further?

You can explore a wide range of 50p coins, including some of the rarest and most iconic designs, at westminstercollection.com. Whether you’re looking for uncirculated, silver, or gold specifications, we’ve got something for every collector.

Start your next collecting adventure today and see if you can add even more of these fascinating coins to your collection!

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2025 UK Annual Coin Sets: Available Now!

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The start of a new year is always exciting, and what better way to celebrate 2025 than with the release of the brand-new UK Annual Coin Sets? Featuring stunning designs and commemorating key anniversaries, these sets are a must-have for collectors. With various options to suit every type of collector, let us be your guide to the best ways to own these important coins.

Official 2025 UK Annual Coin Set – Brilliant Uncirculated

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This set brings together all the new 2025 definitive coins, from the £2 to the 1p, alongside five commemorative coins marking the years important anniversaries:

  • The 350th anniversary of the Greenwich Observatory £2
  • The 200th anniversary of the first Steam Passenger Train £2
  • The 60th anniversary of the Red Arrows 50p
  • 80 years since the end of World War II 50p
  • The 125th birthday of the Queen Mother £5

Find out more information about each new commemorative coin by clicking here.

Each coin is struck to a Brilliant Uncirculated finish, free of blemishes and scratches. Presented in official Royal Mint packaging with detailed information about each coin, this set is available for just £75 (+p&p).


Official UK 2025 Proof Annual Coin Set

Official UK 2025 Proof Annual Coin Set - 2025 UK Annual Coin Sets: Available Now!
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For those seeking the pinnacle of craftsmanship, the Proof Set is the ultimate choice. Limited to just 7,500 sets worldwide.

Annual coin sets proof version - 2025 UK Annual Coin Sets: Available Now!

This set includes the same 13 coins as the Brilliant Uncirculated set, along with The Royal Mint’s Annual Medal—a special addition exclusive to this specification. Secure this exquisite set with an initial deposit of just £38 (+p&p).


The UK 2025 Annual Commemorative Coin Cover Collection

The UK 2025 Annual Commemorative Coin Cover Collection - 2025 UK Annual Coin Sets: Available Now!
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Celebrate 2025’s milestones with one of the most limited presentations of the UK’s 2025 commemorative coins. Each coin is featured within its own individual cover and postmarked on their release date—2nd January 2025. Limited to just 250 worldwide, this collection includes the five key commemorative coins of 2025:

  • The 350th anniversary of the Greenwich Observatory £2
  • The 200th anniversary of the first Steam Passenger Train £2
  • The 60th anniversary of the Red Arrows 50p
  • 80 years since the end of World War II 50p
  • The 125th birthday of the Queen Mother £5

Find out more information about each new commemorative coin design by clicking here.

Each cover features a Royal Mail 1st Class stamp and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure one from the tiny edition limit today with a deposit of just £25 (+p&p).


The UK 2025 DateStamp™ Specimen Year Set

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This exclusive set is forever preserved in time, with each coin postmarked on the release date. Featuring only 1,495 sets worldwide, it includes:

  • The 350th anniversary of the Greenwich Observatory £2
  • The 200th anniversary of the first Steam Passenger Train £2
  • The 60th anniversary of the Red Arrows 50p
  • 80 years since the end of World War II 50p
  • The 125th birthday of the Queen Mother £5

Find out more information about each new commemorative coin design by clicking here.

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This collection of coins is forever set in time by the official Royal Mail postmark that signifies the coins’ first day of release – 2nd January 2025.

Act quickly to secure this iconic collection, starting at just £22 (+p&p).


The Official 2025 United Kingdom Brilliant Uncirculated Coinage Set

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Celebrate the latest designs of King Charles III’s definitive coinage with this set, including the 1p to £2 coins in Brilliant Uncirculated quality. At just £39.50 (+p&p), it’s the perfect way to own these historic coins. By joining the Priority List, you can also secure future Definitive Coin Sets with ease.


Which Set is Right for You?

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, there’s a 2025 Annual Coin Set to suit your needs. From the stunning Proof Set to the accessible Brilliant Uncirculated presentation, each set offers a unique way to own a piece of 2025’s history. Act quickly to secure your choice before these limited editions sell out!

>>> View the entire range 2025 UK Annual Coin Sets by clicking here <<<