Commemoratives
A closer look: the best way to celebrate YOUR Patron Saint this year…
The stories of our Patron Saints are rooted in history, legend, and faith; and yet the annual feast days have evolved to become something of a national celebration year after year.
And last week’s new British Isles 50p release reminded us just how important these symbols of our national identity still are.
Shop the Patron Saints 50p range
Here’s my rundown of the different ways you can still own the sought-after Patron Saints 50p coins:
The Complete Patron Saints Colour BU 50p Set
Featuring all five new 50p coins – St George of England, St Patrick of Ireland, St David of Wales, St Andrew of Scotland and St Helier of issuing country, Jersey – this beautiful set is the collector favourite.
Each coin is struck to a Brilliant Uncirculated finish and features intricate, selective colour application to bring the design to life with nods to each nation’s heritage.
The presentation is limited to just 995 worldwide – that’s more than twice as limited as the standard Brilliant Uncirculated presentation which sold out in a matter of days.
Click here to own the Patron Saints Colour BU 50p Set
The Patron Saints of Great Britain Silver Proof 50p Set
For those looking for something even more exclusive, a set of 4 Silver Proof 50p coins has been issued with a strict worldwide edition limit of just 495.
In true minting mastery, St George, St Patrick, St David and St Andrew have been selectively plated in 24 carat gold, making this a truly stunning way to own these new coins.
Click here to secure your Silver Proof 50p Set
Own a time-sealed 50p celebrating YOUR Patron Saint
And if you want to own a limited edition, time-sealed 50p honouring your Patron Saint exclusively, there are two stunning presentations with official on-the-day postmarks by Royal Mail.
That’s right, the St George, St Patrick and St David Brilliant Uncirculated 50p coins have been paired with a 1st Class Country Definitive Stamp and postmarked with that Saint’s Feast Day in a beautiful cover presentation – each limited to just 500.
And again, for those looking for a more premium time-sealed commemorative – the St George and St Patrick Silver Proof 50p coins have been issued in a DateStamp™ capsule which you can pre-order today.
The World’s First St. George 50p – struck from 5 ounces of pure silver
Now let me finish with the masterpiece.
The Westminster Collection are taking commissions for a special Five Ounce Silver Proof 50p featuring St George of England.
As the face of the UK Sovereign for over 200 years, it’s astonishing that a George and the Dragon 50p didn’t exist before today.
And that’s why the response to the whole range has been remarkable.
Impressively, the 5oz Silver Proof 50p is DOUBLE the diameter of a regular 50p coin and almost 20 times heavier – a true collection centrepiece.
But due to the difficulty in achieving a perfect strike of a coin like this, an edition limit of just 250 has been agreed with the mint. And with commissions already coming in, you won’t have long to secure yours.
Find out more about the St George Silver Proof 5oz 50p
So, whether you’re proud to be English, Irish, Scottish or Welsh, this range celebrates the strength and legacy of each nation individually, and the unique unity of the British Isles as a whole.
Shop the entire Patron Saints range
Celebrating St Andrew’s Day later in the year? Sign up to be kept up to date with St Andrew’s Day commemoratives.
The Legendary Piper of D-Day: Bill Millin’s Story
Before we delve into the extraordinary legacy of Bill Millin, the “Mad Piper” of D-Day, we have a special invitation for our readers. Join us for an exclusive interview with John Millin, son of the legendary piper, as he shares intimate details of his father’s remarkable actions on that fateful day in Normandy.
– WATCH BELOW NOW –
And for those who appreciate the stirring sound of bagpipes, scroll down to see John’s live performance to remember the valour of not only his father but all who served. Don’t miss this captivating tribute to a hero who inspired all the troops around him.
The Unforgettable Sound of Courage
Throughout military history, there are countless stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Yet, among these tales, the story of Bill Millin stands out for its uniqueness and the sheer audacity of one man’s spirit amidst the chaos of war. Bill Millin, often referred to as the “Mad Piper,” played a pivotal role during World War II, not with a weapon, but with his bagpipes, on the beaches of Normandy.
The Pipes of War
Serving under Lord Lovat, commander of the 1st Special Service Brigade, Millin found himself in a unique position. Despite the British Army’s ban on pipers leading soldiers into combat, Lord Lovat, adhering to Highland tradition, believed in the inspirational power of the bagpipes. And so, on D-Day, Millin landed on Sword Beach, tasked with an incredible mission: to play his pipes amidst the danger and chaos of the invasion.
Braving the Bullets with Bagpipes
As Millin strode up and down Sword Beach, his bagpipes rallied his comrades with tunes such as “Highland Laddie” and “The Road to the Isles,” undeterred by the hail of bullets and explosions around him. Remarkably, he emerged unscathed, with some captured German soldiers later admitting they spared him, believing him to be mad.
A Son’s Tribute: John Millin’s Exclusive Performance
It’s with great privilege that we present this extraordinary tribute. To commemorate this special occasion, John has learned the melodies that his father played and that once echoed over the chaotic shores of Normandy. In a live performance, he honours his father’s bravery and courage.
Thank you, John. We dedicate the Beach Piper coin to the memory of your remarkable father.
My day with Bagpuss star Emily Firmin: Celebrating 50 Years of Bagpuss Magic
I couldn’t believe my luck … I recently went on a journey of a lifetime to Canterbury Museum, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of my most treasured childhood TV series — Bagpuss.
This visit wasn’t just a trip down memory lane, it was an immersive dive into the enchanting world of a show that has captivated hearts for generations. The Beaney House, with its commitment to art and knowledge, provided the perfect setting for this celebration, showcasing the magic that has made Bagpuss an enduring icon we all know and love.
Love Bagpuss? Then take a look at the new set of Bagpuss 50ps ready to take home today
The highlight of my visit was the incredible opportunity to meet Emily Firmin, the real-life inspiration and the actual little girl that features in the Bagpuss series. Emily, daughter of Peter Firmin, the co-creator of Bagpuss, shared heartwarming stories about the show’s production, her role in it, and the creative atmosphere her family fostered.
One of the most surreal moments was hearing Emily recite the lines she used to wake up Bagpuss on the show. With a voice that bridged the years, she recited:
“Bagpuss, dear Bagpuss
Old fat furry cat-puss
Wake up and look at this thing that I bring
Wake up, be bright
Be golden and light
Bagpuss, Oh hear what I sing”
These iconic words, so familiar yet so powerful, transported me back to my childhood, and brought back some fantastic memories of my own.
Emily shared some fascinating insights into the making of Bagpuss. She spoke of how her family’s farm was transformed into a film studio, with barns converted to bring to life the magical world of Bagpuss and his friends. Her mother’s sewing machine, which stitched the costumes, became a symbol of the show’s handmade charm. Through Emily’s stories, I gained a vivid picture of a creative and collaborative effort that brought Bagpuss to life, highlighting the contributions of her family to the series’ unique look and appeal than won the hearts of everyone who watched.
One of the most captivating parts of the conversation for me, was learning about the behind-the-scenes moments, such as the family watching the first bits of film with a cup of tea before they were edited.
Beyond the nostalgia, hearing about Emily’s journey from the little girl who inspired a nation to an accomplished artist was truly inspiring. She spoke with passion about how her parents influenced her career, leading her to create art that reflects the creativity and craftsmanship Bagpuss was so famous for.
Meeting Emily Firmin and hearing her stories was an absolute pleasure. Her generosity in sharing her experiences added a deeply personal touch to my visit. The exhibition, the interview, and the whole day was not just a tribute to Bagpuss but a celebration of creativity, family, and the timeless appeal of storytelling.
Happy 50th Bagpuss.
Did you Know? Bagpuss and his friends, Professor Yaffle, Gabriel, Madeleine and the Mice are featured on a set of new 50p coins to mark 50 years since the classic children’s television first appeared on our screens.
Bring Bagpuss into your home, click here to secure your magical 50p coins now! >>>>