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NEW UK 50p – Add a touch of Harry Potter Magic to your collection.
The wizarding world has once again cast its enchanting spell over us with the release of a brand-new UK 50p coin by The Royal Mint. This isn’t just any coin, it’s a tribute to the magical adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and a celebration of the unbreakable bonds of friendship that define the beloved series.
Click on the points in the interactive image below to find out more about this brand new 50p coin range.
A Tribute to Friendship and Adventure
The Harry Potter series has captivated the hearts of millions around the globe, not just for its tales of magic and mystery, but for its powerful themes of friendship, loyalty, and courage. This has been masterfully captured on our UK coinage with one of the most iconic moments from the series—the challenge of the Winged Keys. This 50p coin commemorates the scene where our heroic trio, aboard broomsticks, navigate through a flock of winged keys to catch the one that will unlock the next step in their quest to thwart Lord Voldemort’s return to power.
A Masterpiece Remastered
Designed and remastered by Bella Biggs, a talented product designer at The Royal Mint, the coin features a stylised illustration of Harry Potter demonstrating his flying prowess as he attempts to catch a winged key. This design not only showcases the excitement and dynamic action of the series but also pays homage to the theme of friendship that runs throughout Harry’s journey.
A Collectible with a Twist
Available in various editions, including gold Proof, silver Proof, and Brilliant Uncirculated editions—with the silver Proof version featuring stunning colour printing—this coin is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their collection. In an exciting twist, the Silver Proof 50p edition limit has been significantly reduced by almost 50% compared to the previous Harry Potter 50p coin, making it a rare and valuable find for collectors and fans alike.
Why You Need This Coin in Your Collection
This coin not only celebrates one of the most thrilling scenes from the Harry Potter series but also encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the enduring power of friendship. With its exquisite design and limited availability, the Harry Potter 50p coin is sure to be a treasured item in your collection for years to come.
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.
The history of the iconic Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarch since 1837, including our very own Charles III and Elizabeth II.
It is quite simply one of the most iconic buildings in the world. From state visits to the daily Changing of the Guard, to the annual garden parties and national celebrations; everyone recognises this picturesque building.
But, did you know that Buckingham Palace was initially called Buckingham House?
Read on to explore the history of this great palace, which features on a brand-new UK £5 coin…
Buckingham House – 1761
In 1761, George III purchased Buckingham House for his wife, Queen Charlotte. Close to St James’ Palace, it proved the perfect home for the Queen who gave birth to 14 out of her 15 children there.
But, with the accession of George IV in 1820, he decided that he wanted to reconstruct the house eventually agreeing with his architect to turn it into a palace.
At the time, George IV told parliament that the reconstruction would cost near to £450,000 – that’s about £55 million today!
The house was doubled in size, adding new suites and state rooms, and the facing was curated from Bath stone, echoing a French neo-classical influence.
In fact, the rooms that were designed over 200 years ago stand the same in the current day.
Credit: Royal Collection Trust https://www.rct.uk/collection/922137/buckingham-house-the-east-entrance-front-1819
Queen Victoria – 1837
It wasn’t until 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended the throne, that Buckingham Palace became the official residence of a British monarch.
She was the first monarch to leave from the palace for her coronation, but her marriage to Prince Albert presented some issues. Namely that the palace didn’t have enough nurseries. It therefore went through another construction phase – redesigning some of the inside alongside updating the frontage after soot had ruined it throughout the industrial revolution.
Present Day – 2024
Nowadays, Buckingham Palace is the administrative headquarters of the monarch, as well as the Sovereign’s residence. The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 bedrooms and 78 bathrooms.
Every year more than 50,000 people visit as guests for state banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and garden parties.
Credit: Royal Collection Trust https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace
Brand-New UK £5 Coin
To honour the incredible history and sentiment of this incredible British landmark, a brand-new UK £5 coin has been issued.
But stocks are extremely limited, especially of the rare Silver Piedfort edition of which only 800 are available worldwide.
Click here to view the range and secure your memento today >>
