Since its introduction in 1969, the 50p coin has become one of Britain’s most collectible coins. Over the years, the Royal Mint has released hundreds of special designs to commemorate historic events, anniversaries, and cultural milestones. Some of these coins are so rare that they can be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of pounds.
If you’re lucky, one of these hidden treasures might be hiding in your spare change. Let’s explore the 10 rarest 50p coins still circulating and discover how much they’re worth today.
Top 10 Rarest and Most Valuable 50p Coins
| Coin | Year | Mintage | Estimated Value (Used) | Estimated Value (Uncirculated) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kew Gardens 50p | 2009 | 210,000 | £150-170 | £250-300+ (Proof: £600+) |
| Olympic Aquatics (Original Design) | 2011 | 600-800 | £800-1,200 | £1,300-1,500 |
| EC Single Market 50p | 1992-93 | 109,000 | £50-80 | £150-200 |
| Sir Isaac Newton 50p | 2017 | 1.8 million | £35-60 | £80-120 |
| Peter Rabbit & Flopsy Bunny 50p | 2018 | 1.4m (Peter), 1.35m (Flopsy) | £4-8 (each) | £12-18 (each) |
| Britannia 50p | 2015-16 | 2.8 million | £2-4 | £12-18 |
| NHS 50p | 1998 | 5 million | £10-12 | £25-30 |
| D-Day Landings 50p | 1994 | 6.7 million | £4-8 | £20-30 |
| Commonwealth Games England 50p | 2002 | 2.5 million | £15-20 | £30-50 |
| Sherlock Holmes 50p | 2019 | 8.6 million | £1.50-2.50 | £8-12 |
1. The 2009 Kew Gardens 50p – Worth Up to £600+
The Kew Gardens 50p is the rarest and most famous of all 50p coins. Released to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Royal Botanic Gardens, it features the Chinese Pagoda entwined by a vine. With only 210,000 coins minted, it’s the ultimate prize for collectors.
Value: £150-170 (used) | £250-300+ (uncirculated) | Proof versions sell for £600+.
2. The 2011 Olympic Aquatics 50p (Original Design) – Worth Up to £1,500
Part of the London 2012 Olympics series, this coin originally depicted a swimmer with water lines across their face. The design was quickly revised, making the original extremely rare, with only 600-800 coins released.
Value: £800-1,200 (used) | £1,300-1,500 (uncirculated).
3. The 1992-93 EC Single Market 50p – Worth Up to £200
This coin commemorated the UK’s presidency of the European Council of Ministers. With a mintage of only 109,000, it became especially rare after the smaller 50p coin was introduced in 1997, leading to the withdrawal of larger coins.
Value: £50-80 (used) | £150-200 (uncirculated).
4. The 2017 Sir Isaac Newton 50p – Worth Up to £120
Honoring one of Britain’s greatest scientists, this coin was mainly distributed at Woolsthorpe Manor, Newton’s birthplace. Its unique design features light refracting through a prism.
👉 Value: £35-60 (used) | £80-120 (uncirculated).
5. The 2018 Peter Rabbit & Flopsy Bunny 50p – Worth Up to £18 Each
These coins from the Beatrix Potter collection have a lower mintage: 1.4 million Peter Rabbit and 1.35 million Flopsy Bunny. Their adorable designs make them especially popular.
👉 Value: £4-8 (used) | £12-18 (uncirculated).
6. The 2015-16 Britannia 50p – Worth Up to £18
Marking the return of Britannia to the 50p coin, this design symbolizes British strength. Though 2.8 million were minted, its historical significance keeps demand high.
👉 Value: £2-4 (used) | £12-18 (uncirculated).
7. The 1998 NHS 50p – Worth Up to £30
Issued to celebrate 50 years of the National Health Service, this coin depicts hands cradling a heart. Its connection to the NHS makes it a beloved collector’s item.
Value: £10-12 (used) | £25-30 (uncirculated).
8. The 1994 D-Day Landings 50p – Worth Up to £30
This coin honors the 50th anniversary of the D-Day landings, featuring ships heading toward Normandy’s beaches. Many were withdrawn in 1997, increasing its rarity.
Value: £4-8 (used) | £20-30 (uncirculated).
9. The 2002 Commonwealth Games England 50p – Worth Up to £50
Part of a four-coin series, the England version is the rarest, with a mintage of 2.5 million. It celebrates the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.
Value: £15-20 (used) | £30-50 (uncirculated).
10. The 2019 Sherlock Holmes 50p – Worth Up to £12
Released for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 160th birthday, this coin features Sherlock Holmes with titles of his famous stories.
Value: £1.50-2.50 (used) | £8-12 (uncirculated).
Tips for Finding Rare 50p Coins
Check Your Change – Rare coins still appear in everyday transactions.
Search Old Collections – Coin jars and family collections may hide treasures.
Ask at Banks – Some bank branches allow coin swaps.
Join Online Communities – Connect with other collectors for tips and trades.
How to Protect Your Valuable Coins
- Handle by the Edges – Avoid fingerprints and scratches.
- Use Protective Holders – Store coins in plastic capsules or albums.
- Avoid Cleaning – Cleaning can damage coins and reduce their value.
- Keep in a Cool, Dry Place – Protect against tarnishing and environmental damage.
FAQs
How can I tell if a 50p coin is valuable?
Check its mintage, design variations, and condition.
Where can I sell a rare 50p coin?
Sell through coin dealers, online marketplaces, or auction houses.
Are all old 50p coins valuable?
No, only coins with low mintages or special designs hold high value.
What’s the rarest 50p coin?
The 2009 Kew Gardens 50p remains the rarest and most valuable.
Can I still find rare 50p coins in circulation?
Yes! Rare coins still turn up in everyday change.