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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 more than just small change. And you might be right!
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
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.
2. Kew Gardens 50p (2009)
Mintage: 210,000
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
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
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
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
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
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, 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
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
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!
Discover the 2025 Annual Sets
As we welcome 2025, there’s no better way to mark the occasion than with The official brand new 2025 Annual Sets — a stunning collection of coins celebrating the people, places, and events that have shaped British history. Each coin captures a defining moment, bringing history to life in a way that feels more meaningful than ever at this time of year.
Available on 2nd January 2025
Here’s a closer look at the stories behind these commemorative coins:
Marking the Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother is celebrated for her steadfast resilience and unwavering support during some of the most challenging times in British history, including the Second World War. As a pillar of strength to her husband, George VI, and her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, her influence spanned over a century. The £5 coin dedicated to her features a reverse design with a portrait that previously graced the coin celebrating her 80th birthday in 1980—a timeless tribute to her enduring legacy.
200 Years of the Modern Railway
On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 revolutionised travel by transporting hundreds of passengers between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton. This historic journey not only marked the dawn of the railway age but also transformed industries and cultures worldwide. The £2 coin commemorating this milestone captures the essence of that pivotal moment with a reverse design depicting Locomotion No. 1, paired with the edge inscription, “ACTIVE · LOCOMOTION NO 1.” This coin serves as a tribute to two centuries of innovation and progress in rail travel.
350 Years of The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Founded in 1675 by Charles II, the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, has been a beacon of scientific progress, defining global navigation and timekeeping. The £2 coin commemorates its 350th anniversary with a reverse design that integrates the Shepherd Gate Clock, the constellation Ursa Minor, Polaris, and the iconic meridian line against a globe backdrop. Its edge inscription, “PERFECTING THE ART OF NAVIGATION,” underscores the Observatory’s enduring legacy.
Celebrating the Red Arrows
Since their inception in 1964, the Red Arrows have dazzled millions with their breath-taking aerobatic displays. Representing the precision and agility of the Royal Air Force, the team has performed nearly 5,000 displays across 57 countries. The 50p coin celebrating the Red Arrows features the sleek Hawk T1 aircraft, a tribute to the team’s inspiring legacy and their continued excellence in aviation.
Remembering the Stories of the Second World War
The Second World War was a defining chapter in British history, with contributions from soldiers, factory workers, and citizens alike. The 50p coin honours this collective effort with a reverse design showcasing the 1939–45 Star, Defence Medal, and War Medal—symbols of the bravery and resilience demonstrated during the war. Each medal tells a story of personal sacrifice and national unity that shaped the Britain we know today.
The Obverse: His Majesty King Charles III
Every coin in the 2025 Annual Sets bears the official coinage portrait of His Majesty King Charles III. Designed by Martin Jennings in 2022, this is the first definitive coinage portrait of
His Majesty The King to appear on coins, symbolising the continuity of the monarchy and the evolving story of the United Kingdom.
A Testament to British History and Craftsmanship
Each coin is meticulously crafted, embodying The Royal Mint’s dedication to excellence and storytelling. These sets not only celebrate the past but also inspire future generations to cherish and learn from Britain’s rich cultural heritage.
Available on 2nd January 2025
As stated by the Royal Mint
Tudor England: A Pop Culture Phenomenon That Never Fades
Over 500 years have passed since Henry VIII ruled England, but the Tudor dynasty continues to captivate hearts and minds across the globe. From the West End to prime-time TV, the Tudors remain an enduring source of fascination, blending drama, romance, intrigue, and sheer opulence. Let’s explore why this fascinating chapter of history remains such a vibrant part of today’s pop culture.
On Stage and Screen
One of the most dazzling examples of Tudor history thriving in modern entertainment is SIX: The Musical. This sensational stage production reimagines the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives as a pop concert, blending history with empowering anthems. Each queen tells her side of the story in a high-energy, feminist reworking of their tales, turning tragic endings into bold declarations of independence. The show’s global success proves that even centuries-old stories can have a modern voice.
Credit – https://sixonbroadway.com/ Youtube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@sixglobal
Meanwhile, dramas like the BBC’s Wolf Hall and The Tudors bring Tudor England to life on screen with breathtaking visuals and riveting storytelling. These series capture the drama of court life, from Anne Boleyn’s rise and fall to Thomas Cromwell’s machinations behind the throne. Their cinematic portrayal keeps audiences hooked, proving that historical figures like Henry VIII are as compelling as any fictional character.
Watch the BBC first on iPlayer 👉 https://bbc.in/iPlayer-Home
Fashioning the Past: Tudor Style in Modern Media
Tudor fashion and iconography are unmistakable. Who can forget the opulent gowns, towering headdresses, or Henry VIII’s iconic fur-trimmed robes? These elements regularly influence everything from runway shows to film costuming, where echoes of Tudor grandeur and style are reinterpreted in new and creative ways. Even in modern art and advertising, the distinctive visual style of the Tudors continues to inspire.
Endless Drama: Why We Love the Tudors
The Tudors’ stories read like a script for the ultimate soap opera. Love, betrayal, power struggles, and executions—these timeless themes resonate across generations. The larger-than-life personas of Henry VIII and his wives bring unparalleled drama, making them a source of inspiration for writers, directors, and artists.
Celebrating Tudor England Through Collectibles
For history enthusiasts and collectors, tangible connections to this era, like collectible coins or commemoratives, offer a a unique way to immortalise Tudor history. Our exclusive range of products featuring Henry VIII and his wives captures the essence of this fascinating period. Each item is a tribute to the characters and stories that continue to inspire books, plays, and films.
From stage musicals to prestige dramas, the Tudors have a unique ability to bridge the gap between history and pop culture. Their enduring appeal lies in the rich tapestry of their lives, full of triumphs and tragedies that continue to resonate. Whether you’re a fan of SIX, Wolf Hall, or simply fascinated by the legacy of this iconic dynasty, the Tudors prove that history is never truly in the past—it’s alive, dynamic, and endlessly inspiring.
