Posts Tagged ‘50p’
Rare UK £1 coin pair: The 2017 Nations of the Crown and 2023 Bee £1 Coins
The British £1 coin has always been a symbol of resilience and innovation, and today, you can celebrate its rich 500-year history with a remarkable collectible: The British Pound Coin Collector’s Frame. Featuring the brand-new King Charles III “Bee” £1 coin alongside the 2017 “Nations of the Crown” £1 coin, this exclusive pairing honours two of the most significant transformations in the denomination’s history.
The Evolution of the £1 Coin
The journey of Britain’s £1 coin has been nothing short of revolutionary. Introduced in 1983 to replace the £1 note, it became an essential part of everyday life. However, by the early 21st century, the “round pound” faced a growing challenge: counterfeiting. It was estimated that one in 30 £1 coins in circulation was fake, prompting the need for a more secure solution.
Right: 2017 12-sided UK £1 coin
Enter the 12-sided £1 coin, introduced on 28th March 2017. Dubbed the “most secure coin in circulation,” it featured:
- Micro-lettering along the rim for added security.
- A hologram that cleverly switches between a ‘£’ symbol and the number ‘1’ when tilted.
- A groundbreaking bi-metallic design, making it harder to replicate.
The transition from the round pound to the 12-sided coin was a monumental moment, marking a new chapter for Britain’s currency.
The Arrival of the King Charles III “Bee” £1 Coin
In 2023, history was made once again as The Royal Mint unveiled the first £1 coin featuring the effigy of King Charles III. For the first time in over 70 years, the obverse design of the £1 changed, symbolizing the start of a new royal era. What makes this coin even more special is its reverse design, celebrating the industrious honeybee, a vital emblem of British wildlife and a nod to environmental conservation.
The King Charles III “Bee” £1 coin has quickly become a sought-after piece among collectors, representing not only a new reign but also a fresh perspective on what Britain’s coinage can embody.
A Frame Worthy of History
The British Pound Coin Collector’s Frame brings these two iconic coins together in a pristine presentation. Carefully curated to highlight their beauty and significance, this collector’s item serves as a tribute to the £1 coin’s enduring legacy and innovative spirit.
Price £25.00 (+ £3.99 p&p)
With the 2017 Nations of the Crown £1 representing the dawn of unparalleled security and the 2023 King Charles III Bee £1 symbolising a new royal chapter, this pairing encapsulates the evolution of one of Britain’s most iconic denominations.
Secure Your Collector’s Frame Today
The British Pound Coin Collector’s Frame is an unmissable opportunity. Secure your set today and own a tangible piece of Britain’s monetary history—a celebration of tradition, innovation, and the changing times.
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.
