Commemoratives
Explore the Ice Age Giants 50p series
The Royal Mint’s Tales of the Earth collection continues to captivate with a new series of coins that celebrate the awe-inspiring megafauna of the Ice Age. These coins depict three of the most iconic large mammals of the Pleistocene Epoch, a period that began 2.6 million years ago when vast ice sheets covered large parts of the Earth. While these glaciers dominated the landscape, immense creatures known as megafauna thrived in the grasslands nearby, and the latest UK 50p coins honour these giants in stunning detail.
The Mighty Steppe Mammoth
The first coin in the series features Mammuthus trogontherii, the colossal Steppe Mammoth. One of the largest mammals to exist during the Pleistocene Epoch, the steppe mammoth stood an impressive 4 meters tall at the shoulder and weighed up to 10 tonnes. Thought to have evolved from an ancestor in China around 2 million years ago, this giant herbivore adapted to changing environments with notable features. Its molars developed more ridges to better withstand abrasive vegetation, a critical adaptation that distinguished it from other mammoth species.
The Hardy Woolly Rhinoceros
Next in the series is the Woolly Rhinoceros UK 50p Coin, which highlights this remarkable creature that once roamed the grassy plains of the Ice Age. Despite being similar in size to today’s African white rhinoceros—around 2 tonnes—the woolly rhinoceros was well-suited for freezing conditions. Its thick double-layered coat protected it from temperatures as low as -60°C, and its long, sabre-like front horn likely helped clear snow in search of vegetation.
The Majestic Giant Deer
The final coin in this breathtaking series honours the Giant Deer, or Megaloceros giganteus. Known for its colossal antlers, which were the largest of any known species (measuring between 2.5 and 3.5 meters across), the giant deer was truly a sight to behold. With a shoulder height just under 2 meters—about the height of an average doorframe—this megafauna species managed to thrive in both the colder and warmer climates of the Ice Age, often coexisting with the woolly mammoth in more southerly areas.
This Icy 50p coin range from the Royal Mint’s Tales of the Earth series beautifully commemorates the grandeur of the Ice Age and it’s extraordinary creatures. From the towering Steppe Mammoth to the resilient Woolly Rhinoceros and the majestic Giant Deer, each coin is a tribute to a bygone era of natural wonders. Crafted with expert attention to detail and scientific accuracy, these coins are a must-have.
Artwork by Renowned Aviation artist Tim O’Brien recommissioned for NEW Limited Edition Concorde Set
When we think of aviation legends, few aircraft capture the imagination quite like Concorde. Sleek, supersonic, and effortlessly stylish, Concorde wasn’t just a mode of transport but a marvel of engineering that changed aviation forever. Now, a new opportunity has emerged for enthusiasts and collectors alike: the chance to own FIVE Supersonic Concorde Commemoratives featuring artwork by renowned aviation artist Tim O’Brien recommissioned for this Concorde set.
Tim O’Brien’s Artistic Mastery
Aviation art enthusiasts will already be familiar with Tim O’Brien’s name. His breathtaking work has been celebrated far and wide, capturing the spirit of flight in a way few artists can. O’Brien’s pieces don’t just depict aircraft; they convey the majesty of the skies and the meticulous detail of every rivet and curve. His original Concorde watercolour, once exhibited at the prestigious Guild of Aviation Artists Exhibition at the Mall Gallery in London, quickly became a sensation, with prints selling out and becoming highly prized collectibles.
The Mall Gallery itself is known for showcasing works that can command prices of £1,000 and beyond. Yet, here’s the incredible part: today, you can own five remarkable pieces inspired by O’Brien’s Concorde originals, all for just £29.99 (+p&p).
Five Skylines, Five Legendary Moments
This limited-edition set celebrates Concorde’s iconic journeys across some of the world’s most famous cities. Each commemorative features a scene that captures Concorde in all its supersonic glory:
- London, the city that helped launch Concorde into fame.
- Paris, a partner in Concorde’s innovation and home to its impressive engineering feats.
- New York, where passengers disembarked in half the usual transatlantic flight time.
- Sydney, symbolising Concorde’s range and ambition to connect the world’s most distant points.
- Washington, another destination that witnessed the era of supersonic luxury.
The detail and quality of these pieces are nothing short of mesmerising, with each commemorative bringing to life Concorde’s beauty against stunning cityscapes.
A Legacy That Endures
Why does Concorde still captivate us? Perhaps it’s because Concorde was a technological marvel that operated ahead of its time, cruising at Mach 2.04 (more than twice the speed of sound). With a top speed of over 1,350 mph, Concorde was faster than a bullet and could fly from London to New York in under 3.5 hours. In an era before widespread internet connectivity, Concorde made global travel feel truly instantaneous.
Concorde’s first commercial flight took place on January 21, 1976, and the aircraft continued to serve for 27 years until its final flight in 2003. During that time, Concorde carried royalty, celebrities, and business leaders in an unparalleled fusion of speed and luxury. It remains the only supersonic passenger aircraft ever to have seen regular service, a feat unmatched to this day.
Affordable Fine Art for Collectors
These commemoratives aren’t just a tribute to a bygone era of supersonic luxury; they are an affordable way to own a piece of fine art history. Tim O’Brien’s work, which has been revered and collected around the world, is now within reach for aviation enthusiasts and art lovers alike. For just £29.99 (+p&p), you can secure a limited-edition set that pays homage to Concorde’s breathtaking legacy and captures the essence of O’Brien’s masterful artistry.
Secure your set today for just £29.99 (+p&p) and celebrate Concorde’s unforgettable mark on the world.
Step into Tudor History: The Wives of Henry VIII Colour BU 50p Set – Limited Edition, 70% Sold!
Offer Ending Soon: £15.00 Saving on Pre-Orders – Ends 13th November 2024
Prepare to immerse yourself in the dramatic story of Henry VIII, the formidable king whose reign transformed England forever. Known for his larger-than-life personality, relentless pursuit of an heir, and ruthless actions that reshaped the nation’s religious and political landscape, Henry’s legacy continues to captivate. Now an exclusive set of six official new 50p coins has been released to commemorate the life and fate of his six unfortunate wives – and each 50p set includes a FREE King Henry VIII commemorative, capturing the powerful monarch in striking detail.
Authorised by Buckingham Palace, this set offers a window into the most infamous chapter in Tudor history, depicting each of Henry’s wives with vibrant colour detailing. Only 750 of these Brilliant Uncirculated colour specification sets will ever be available, and with over 70% of the sets already sold, the excitement is palpable.
This exclusive pre-release opportunity for Westminster Collectors offers a £15.00 saving, but only until 13th November 2024 or until the entire edition limit is allocated – whichever comes first.
The Six Wives of Henry VIII: The Women Behind the Throne
As the story of Henry VIII unfolded, six women shaped the Tudor court and influenced Henry’s decisions, each leaving her mark on history.
Katherine of Aragon (1485–1536)
Henry’s first queen and a Spanish princess, Katherine was determined to remain married despite her inability to produce a male heir. Her resistance led Henry to break from the Catholic Church, forever changing England’s religious landscape.
Anne Boleyn (1501–1536)
Henry’s fascination with Anne led to a legendary romance, the birth of Elizabeth I, and a dramatic fall from grace. When Anne couldn’t provide a son, Henry’s affection turned to fury, leading to her tragic execution.
Jane Seymour (1508–1537)
The gentle Jane Seymour, Henry’s third wife, was the only queen to give him a surviving male heir, Edward VI. Tragically, she died shortly after childbirth, leaving Henry grieving.
Anne of Cleves (1515–1557)
Henry’s fourth marriage, arranged for political alliance, ended swiftly due to Henry’s dissatisfaction. Nonetheless, Anne was treated well post-annulment, living the rest of her life as the “King’s Beloved Sister.”
Catherine Howard (1523–1542)
Young and lively, Catherine Howard quickly captured Henry’s heart, but accusations of infidelity led to her swift execution—another victim of Henry’s ruthless resolve.
Katherine Parr (1512–1548)
Henry’s final queen, Katherine Parr, was a wise and compassionate woman who helped reconcile Henry with his children. Outliving him, she later remarried, marking her as a survivor of one of history’s most dangerous courts.
Limited Edition Collector Favourite: Brilliant Uncirculated Colour, Featuring King Henry VIII
This captivating set is not only a tribute to Henry’s six wives but also features a striking commemorative of Henry VIII himself. Detailed and powerful, this special piece captures the king’s formidable presence and complements the collection beautifully.
Each of the six 50p coins and the Henry VIII commemorative are presented in Brilliant Uncirculated Colour specification, bringing Tudor history to life in vibrant colour. Don’t miss your chance to own this limited edition set and take advantage of the £15.00 saving on pre-orders before 13th November.