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On Monday 12th February 2024, a brand new set of British Isles coins will be released. Sign up below to be amongst the first to see them.
Celebrating 200 Years of Bravery at Sea: The New UK 2024 RNLI 50p Coin
The 2024 UK RNLI 50p has just been released, and it’s set to be a standout issue this year.
Given the RNLI’s revered status and the coin’s unique design, it’s going to be highly sought after by collectors.
We already know this coin is going to be incredibly popular. How? Just look at the engagement it received when we revealed it as part of the Annual Set this year.
Click here to secure your 2024 UK RNLI 50p
So why has this UK 50p coin been released?
The United Kingdom celebrates a significant milestone in maritime history with the release of a special commemorative coin. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), renowned for its heroic lifesaving efforts, marks its 200th anniversary with a dedicated 50p coin. This release is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of RNLI volunteers over two centuries.
The 50p design
Click on the flashing points in the interactive image below to discover more about the designs and specifications.
See the full UK 2024 RNLI 50p Range
The coin’s reverse, designed by John Bergdahl, features a striking depiction of the RNLI flag, gracefully encircled by a lifebuoy. The inscription “200 YEARS” and the dates “1824 – 2024” honour the bicentennial of the RNLI.
The obverse showcases the 1st portrait of King Charles III by Martin Jennings, surrounded by the inscription “CHARLES III • D • G • REX F • D • 50 PENCE • 2024 •”.
Image: Arpingstone, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
History of the RNLI
Since its inception in 1824, the RNLI has played a pivotal role in maritime rescue operations around the coasts of the UK and Ireland. Founded by Sir William Hillary, the RNLI was established out of a necessity to provide a dedicated lifesaving service, which was notably absent despite the high frequency of shipwrecks around the British Isles. The RNLI’s foundation marked the beginning of a noble mission to save lives at sea, a mission that has continued unwaveringly for nearly two centuries. As a charity funded primarily through donations, it has been instrumental in saving over 140,000 lives, thanks to the valour of its volunteers.
Right: Launching a lifeboat from the out-of-copyright book ‘English Illustrated Magazine’ published in 1886.
Given the popularity of the RNLI combined with the popularity of the UK 50p coins, it is certain our stocks will not last long.
Writer’s Choice
The RNLI 50p range includes a variety of different specifications, including the Brilliant Uncirculated 50p, the Silver Proof Colour 50p, and the Gold Proof 50p.
But there is one that stands out of them all and has been selected as the ‘Writer’s Choice’… The RNLI Silver Proof Piedfort 50p.
And the reason is: the edition limit.
The UK 2024 RNLI Silver Proof Piedfort 50p – double the thickness, double the weight of a standard 50p – has an edition limit of JUST 1,824. It is over two times more limited than its standard silver counterpart.
50p coins are already the favourites amongst collectors. Now add Silver Proof, Piedfort, colour AND a remarkably low edition limit to it and it becomes a must-have.
HMS Warspite: The First Battleship to Open Fire on D-Day
Click here to view the brand new 80th anniversary of D-Day coin range featured in this video.
As the dawn of June 6, 1944, broke over the Normandy coast, a monumental chapter in world history was being written. D-Day, the largest seaborne invasion in history, was about to commence. Included among the vast Allied fleet assembled for Operation Overlord, the HMS Warspite, an experienced British battleship. It was on this historic day that the Warspite became the first battleship to open fire, marking the beginning of a crucial chapter in the liberation of Europe.
The Pride of the Royal Navy: HMS Warspite
HMS Warspite, a Queen Elizabeth-class battleship, was launched in 1913, she had already earned her place in naval legend through her service in both World Wars. By the time of D-Day, Warspite had been in service for over three decades, witnessing the evolution of naval warfare from the dreadnought era to the age of aircraft carriers and submarines.
Warspite’s Role on D-Day
As part of the bombardment force during the Normandy invasion, Warspite had a crucial role. She was tasked with softening the German defenses along the coast to aid the landing of Allied troops on the beaches. Positioned off Sword Beach, one of the five designated landing areas, Warspite’s guns were ideally situated to provide critical support.
The First Shot
In the early hours of June 6, Warspite made history as the first battleship to open fire against German fortifications. This act signified more than just a military manoeuvre; it was a symbol of the Allied determination to reclaim Europe from the clutches of Nazi occupation.
Precision Bombardment
Equipped with eight 15-inch guns, Warspite was a formidable force. Her firepower was not just about brute force; it was precise. Warspite’s gunnery crew, seasoned by years of conflict, were experts at long-range bombardment. Their accuracy was critical in minimising collateral damage and ensuring the success of the landings. Despite being one of the oldest battleships in service, Warspite proved that she was still a force to be reckoned with.
Click here to view the other key elements featured on the D-Day 80th Anniversary coin design.
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