Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War, 2025: BU annual set
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War, 2025: BU annual set
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War, 2025: Proof annual set
  • 50 Pence 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Stories of the Second World War, 2025: Proof premium set
Description

The Second World War profoundly shaped modern British society, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s identity, resilience, and sense of unity. It was a time when the collective efforts of the British people and the wider Commonwealth were pivotal to the war effort. From the extraordinary bravery of soldiers, sailors, and airmen on the front lines to the relentless dedication of factory workers producing munitions and supplies, every citizen contributed in some way.

To honor these contributions, the 50p coin features the 1939–45 Star, Defence Medal, and War Medal—prestigious awards granted to millions of men and women for their wartime service. These medals, richly symbolic, represent not only the valor and sacrifice of those who fought but also the countless stories of endurance and determination on the home front. The war catalyzed significant social change, paving the way for advancements in gender equality, technological innovation, and the modern welfare state. This coin serves as a tribute to a generation whose combined efforts during one of history’s darkest periods helped to secure a future of freedom and progress.

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•2025 •
MJ

Reverse

Depictsdepicts the 1939-45 Star, Defence Medal and War Medal.

The 1939-45 Star was awarded to British and Commonwealth service personnel who served between September 3, 1939, and September 2, 1945, during World War II. It recognized participation in operational service in various theaters of war, whether on land, sea, or air. Eligibility required a minimum of 180 days of service, although specific requirements varied based on the branch of service and theater. The medal features a six-pointed star made of bronze, with the monarch's cypher surrounded by a circlet inscribed with "The 1939-1945 Star." Recipients wore a ribbon of dark blue, red, and light blue stripes, symbolizing the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force.

The Defence Medal was awarded to military and civilian personnel who contributed to the defense of the United Kingdom and its territories during World War II. It commemorated service in non-operational areas subject to air raids, such as the Blitz, or for those engaged in civil defense roles. Eligibility also included non-combat roles overseas in areas threatened by attack. The medal is made of cupronickel or silver, bearing the image of King George VI and the inscription "GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX F:D:IND:IMP." Its ribbon consists of green edges for the land, orange for the flames of enemy attacks, and black stripes for the blackout.

The War Medal 1939-45 was awarded to all full-time service members of the armed forces and merchant navy who served at least 28 days between September 3, 1939, and September 2, 1945. It acknowledged the collective effort and sacrifices of personnel across the globe. The medal is made of silver or cupro-nickel, featuring King George VI on the obverse and a lion standing over a double-headed dragon symbolizing Axis powers on the reverse. The ribbon, with its red, white, and blue stripes, represents the British Commonwealth's contribution to victory in the war.

Engraver: Timothy Noad (T over N)

TN
GRJ
VI
THE 1939 - 1945 STAR
HP
GEO V :BR:OMN:REX F:D:IND:IMP
PM
IVS VI D: G:BR:OMN:REX: ET INDIAE IM
STORIES OF THE
SECOND WORLD
WAR

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

Related coins

Silver Proof Coin

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Silver, 8 g, ⌀ 27.3 mm
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Gold Proof Coin

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Gold, 15.5 g, ⌀ 27.3 mm