Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 50 Pence 2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 200th Anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
  • 50 Pence 2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 200th Anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
  • 50 Pence 2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 200th Anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Fold-out packaging
Description

Guided by a spirit of bravery and commitment, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has been rescuing lives at sea since 1824. Conceived by Sir William Hillary, inspired by numerous shipwrecks along the Manx coast, it was initially named the Royal National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck, later becoming the RNLI in 1854. As a charitable organization sustained by donations and the valor of volunteers, the RNLI operates around the clock, in all weather conditions, having saved over 144,000 lives since its founding.

In 1785, Lionel Lukin designed the first purpose-built lifeboat, a concept that laid the foundation for the RNLI's innovative lifesaving methods over the past two centuries. The introduction of motor lifeboats in 1905 marked a transformative milestone, adapting to evolving boat engineering. From a unique, fast motor lifeboat in 1930 to the incorporation of inflatable lifeboats in 1963 for reaching challenging areas near shore, cliffs, and caves, the RNLI has continuously evolved. In 2001, the RNLI expanded its efforts to include lifeguard patrols on over 240 beaches in the UK and Channel Islands. Lifeguards play a crucial role in in-water rescues, providing first aid, and promoting water safety to prevent incidents.

Obverse

Depicts King Charles III’s effigy, surrounded by the Latin inscription. Engraver's initials on the neck.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX FIDEI DEFENSOR means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King, Defender of the Faith.

Engraver: Martin Jennings (MJ)

CHARLES III•D•G•REX•F•D•50 PENCE•2024 •
MJ

Reverse

Depicts the Kisbee life ring, which was adopted for use by the RNLI as early as 1855 and remained in use for the next 100 years until it was replaced by the much lighter polyethylene version that is still used today. The central section comprises the RNLI badge to be found on the side of all their boats, as well as lapel badges, caps and other merchandise associated with the institution.

Engraver: John Bergdahl (JB)

200 YEARS
R N
L I
1824 2024
JB

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 8 g
Diameter 27.3 mm
Thickness -
Shape polygon
Sides 7
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint