In October 2020, Royal Mint proudly launched the “Diversity Built Britain 50p coin”, an important addition to the UK’s circulating currency. Unveiled in the month of Black History Month, this coin celebrates the solid contributions made by black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities to British society. Issuing 10 million coins into circulation works both as a celebration of diversity, and an accessible reminder of that importance in modern Britain.
The coin, designed by Dominique Evans, features a complex geometric pattern, known as a geodome, that represents strength, connection and unity. The following article details its history, design, mintage, and value to collectors.
Historical Significance of the “Diversity Built Britain” Coin
The “Diversity Built Britain” 50 pence piece is the initial in a scheduled collection intended to acknowledge the contribution of ethnic minority communities to the U.Okay. It comes after years of campaigning from the Banknotes of Colour campaign, which has pointed out the absence of representation of BAME people in the British currency.
Even if no individual BAME historical figure will be represented on coins, their introduction on some coins marks progress in more widely representing diversity. The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, said the series paid tribute to the contributions of ethnic minorities to building Britain.
The campaign’s wider aim also involves putting women like Noor Inayat Khan, a Second World War secret agent, and Mary Seacole, a Crimean War nurse, on future banknotes and coins. The issuance of this coin, the “Diversity Built Britain 50p coin”, is a step on the long journey to achieving this.
The Design and Symbolism
Visual Features
Its design, by Royal Mint artist Dominique Evans, conveys unity and equality. It features:
A Geodome Background: The Geodome The Conjoined Lines and Triangles form a network that symbolises community and power.
“Diversify Built Britain” Inscription: The coin’s overall message here is presented in bold block capitals.
The idea of feeling belonging under one sky was born out of Evans’s thinking about those who have had an impact on her life. The artwork reflects diversity and how it contributes to a cohesive society.
Variants and Availability
The coin comes in a few different versions:
Circulated Version: Out of 21 million total coins, 10 million are actively circulating and in widespread circulation.
Collector Editions: Uncirculated, silver and gold editions are available for purchase from the Royal Mint’s official website.
Mintage and Circulation Figures
With only 10 million minted this coin is considered common for a commemorative 50p coin. For context:
Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny 50ps 2018: 1.4 million each, most scarce 50ps
2009 Kew Gardens 50p: 210,000 minted, the rarest circulating 50p coin.
Brexit 50p (2020): Also high-mintage, 10 million pieces.
With a high mintage, the “Diversity Built Britain 50p” coin will appear in general circulation, in 190 thousand striking examples, ensuring its message is widely passed on.
Collector’s Value and Market Trends
As with many of its commemorative coins, it may appeal to collectors; the “Diversity Built Britain” 50p. Now, while the mintage is high, meaning it won’t appreciate a lot to significant value in the short-term;
Current Market Insights
Circulated Coins: Circulated coins regularly go at around £1 on eBay
Silver Proof Editions: First traded in £60-100 at the Royal Mint (resale £30-40).
GOLD PROOF EDITIONS: Fetch based on their limited production.
Though commemorative coins can be of sentimental value, they are not necessarily an investment. Collectors should pursue them out of an interest in numismatics, not out of an expectation of profit.
Broader Context: Representation of British Currency
The launch of the “Diversity Built Britain 50p coin” illustrates the continued need for more representation in the British currency. To date, no BAME person has appeared on any banknote or coin in general circulation. This has prompted the Banknotes of Colour campaign to continue its push for politicians and important historical figures from minority backgrounds to be commemorated, in order to promote diversity in the narrative.
Potential Future Developments
The Royal Mint has not yet stated that future coins in this series will feature individual people. However public interest and advocacy might shape future designs. Standout candidates include figures such as Noor Inayat Khan and Mary Seacole.
Conclusion
This 50p coin dubbed the “Diversity Built Britain 50p coin”, is a powerful reminder of the contributions ethnic minorities have made to the UK. The design is considered to be well thought through and due to its accessibility and cultural significance, it is an important addition to British coinage. Its financial value as a collector’s item may be small, but its symbolic worth is immeasurable, a daily reminder of the strength that comes from diversity.
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