Description

Victory in Europe (VE) Day, celebrated on May 8, marks the official end of World War II in Europe in 1945. On this day, Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender was formally accepted by the Allied forces, bringing nearly six years of brutal conflict on the European continent to a close. The announcement sparked widespread celebrations across Europe and North America, as millions rejoiced in the defeat of fascism and the hope for lasting peace. VE Day remains a powerful symbol of liberation, sacrifice, and unity, honoring both the military personnel and civilians who endured immense hardship during the war. To commemorate this historic milestone, a new UK 50p coin has just been issued to mark 80 years since Europe claimed victory in the Second World War.

A piedfort is an unusually thick coin, often exactly twice the normal weight and thickness of other coins of the same diameter and pattern. Piedforts are not normally circulated, and are only struck for presentation purposes by mint officials (such as patterns), or for collectors, dignitaries, and other VIPs.