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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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4. Olympic Wrestling 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,129,500

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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10. Olympic Goalball 50p (2011)

Mintage: 1,615,500

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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.

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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!