Description

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.

The British decimal fifty pence (50p) coin – often pronounced fifty pee – is a unit of currency equaling one half of a pound sterling. Over the years, the coin has celebrated every aspect of British culture, including the stories behind the people and institutions that put the great into Great Britain. As the nation’s most collectable coin reaches a milestone moment, 50 years in circulation, The Royal Mint presented a special commemorative set to mark this momentous occasion.

From the Battle of Hastings to D-Day, epic battles have altered history’s path. Over the last 50 years, the 50p has been chosen to commemorate some of the most pivotal moments in military history, defining moments that every child still learns about in school.

This set brings together all five military-themed designs that have graced the coin: the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, the 50th anniversary of D-Day, the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and two coins commemorating the 150th anniversary of the creation of the Victoria Cross medal.