Discover London’s Hidden Treasures: Collectible 10p, 50p, and £2 Coins with Signature Mark Tours
London is a city filled with history, culture, and countless treasures waiting to be discovered. But some of the most fascinating and valuable finds are much smaller than you might expect—they fit right in the palm of your hand. We’re talking about the collectible 10p, 50p, and £2 coins that circulate throughout the UK, each one a miniature piece of art that tells a story about the nation’s heritage, achievements, and cultural icons.
At Signature Mark Tours, we believe that every moment in London should be an adventure, and what better way to enrich your experience than by hunting for these unique coins? Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or simply looking for a special souvenir, these coins are the perfect keepsake from your London journey. Let’s explore the fascinating world of UK collectible coins and discover the stories they hold.
The 10p Coin: A Celebration of Britain’s A-Z
Image By Royal Mint, 2019
In 2018, the Royal Mint launched a special series of 10p coins celebrating all things quintessentially British. This A-Z collection features 26 different designs, each representing a different aspect of British culture and history. Finding these coins in your change is like uncovering a tiny piece of British life, and collecting the whole set is a fun challenge for any visitor.
Here are some standout designs from the series:
B for Bond: This coin celebrates the world’s most famous spy, James Bond. With a sleek design featuring the iconic gun barrel and ‘007’ logo, this coin is a must-have for fans of the franchise.
G for Greenwich Mean Time: Marking the spot where time begins, this coin pays tribute to Greenwich, the historical home of the Prime Meridian.
L for Loch Ness Monster: Featuring the silhouette of Nessie, this coin brings to life one of Britain’s most enduring myths and legends.
T for Tea: What’s more British than a good cup of tea? This charming design depicts a steaming teapot, symbolising the nation’s love for tea.
These are just some of the stories; as you explore London, keep an eye out for these coins in your change—each one is a little piece of British culture you can take home with you.
The 50p Coin: Commemorating Britain’s Rich Heritage
You never know what's hiding behind Her Majesty's face.
The 50p coin is perhaps the most popular collectible coin in the UK, with countless special editions released over the years. These coins commemorate significant events, historical figures, and British achievements, making them a perfect keepsake for any visitor to London.
Some notable 50p coins to look out for include:
Image By Royal Mint, 2019
The Kew Gardens 50p (2009): One of the rarest and most sought-after coins, this design celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The coin features the famous Chinese Pagoda at Kew, surrounded by vines. Only 210,000 of these coins were minted, making it a true collector’s item.
Image By Royal Mint, 2019
The Peter Rabbit 50p Series: In honour of Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters, the Royal Mint released a series of 50p coins featuring Peter Rabbit and his friends. These coins are beautifully detailed and a hit with both children and adults.
Image By Westminster Collection, 2016
The Battle of Hastings 50p (2016): This coin commemorates the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, a pivotal moment in British history. The design depicts the moment King Harold was struck by an arrow, as shown in the Bayeux Tapestry.
Image By The Great British Coin Company, 2011
The Olympic 50p Series (2011): To celebrate the London 2012 Olympics, the Royal Mint released 29 different 50p coins, each representing a different Olympic or Paralympic sport. These coins are a fantastic reminder of London’s proud moment as the host of the Games.
Image By The Great British Coin Company, 2018
The Brexit 50p (2020): Commemorating the UK's departure from the European Union, this coin features the inscription "Peace, prosperity, and friendship with all nations" along with the date of Brexit, 31 January 2020. It marks a significant moment in modern British history.
Image By The Great British Coin Company, 2018
Lastly in this collection, not forgetting the British loved character Paddington Bear 50p Series (2018-2019): This charming series celebrates one of Britain’s most beloved characters, Paddington Bear. The coins feature Paddington in iconic London locations, including Paddington Station, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and St. Paul's Cathedral. These adorable designs are a delightful nod to both British culture and children’s literature, making them a perfect souvenir for visitors of all ages.
With such a diverse range of designs, the 50p coin offers a fascinating journey through Britain’s history and culture. Finding these coins in your change is like uncovering a hidden gem, each one with its own story to tell.
The £2 Coin: Honoring Britain’s Great Achievements
Image By, The Westminster Collection
The £2 coin is the UK’s largest coin in regular circulation, and it’s often used to commemorate significant national achievements and historical milestones. These coins are a little more unusual in everyday transactions, making them an even more exciting find.
Some of the most collectible £2 coins include:
The Magna Carta £2 (2015): This coin celebrates the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, a document that laid the foundation for modern democracy and the rule of law. The design features King John and the Magna Carta, symbolising this groundbreaking moment in history.
Image By, The Westminster Collection
The Shakespeare £2 Series (2016): Released to mark the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death, this series features three different designs representing the Bard’s most famous works: a crown and sword for his histories, a skull for his tragedies, and a jester’s hat for his comedies.
Image By, The Westminster Collection
The World War I Centenary £2 (2014-2018): This series of coins honours the centenary of World War I, with designs that reflect the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. The coins feature poignant images such as the depiction of a soldier, a poppy, and the haunting words “The lamps are going out all over Europe.”
Image By, The Westminster Collection
The DNA Double Helix £2 (2003): Celebrating the discovery of DNA by Watson and Crick, this coin features a striking image of the double helix, symbolising one of the most significant scientific discoveries of the 20th century.
These £2 coins are not only valuable keepsakes but also serve as a powerful reminder of Britain’s contributions to the world. As you explore London, be sure to check your change for these distinctive coins—they’re more than just currency; they’re a piece of history.
While we've highlighted some of the most unique and collectible 10p, 50p, and £2 coins you might find during your time in London, there are many more out there, waiting to be discovered. From designs that celebrate British history to coins that mark significant cultural moments, each one offers a story, a memory, and a special connection to this incredible city. So, as you explore London, keep a lookout for those coins that look just a little unusual—you might just stumble upon a treasure hunt in your pocket!
Join the Signature Experience: A Treasure Hunt in Your Pocket
At Signature Mark Tours, we’re all about creating unforgettable experiences, and hunting for collectible coins in London is just one more way to make your visit truly special. Imagine the thrill of finding a rare Kew Gardens 50p or a Magna Carta £2 in your change—these little treasures are the perfect memento of your time in London.
As you explore the city’s historic streets, visit its world-famous museums, or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, keep an eye out for these unique coins. Each one tells a story, connecting you to the rich tapestry of British history and culture.
Ready to start your own coin collection? Let Signature Mark Tours guide you through the best of London, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems—and perhaps, along the way, you’ll discover a few hidden treasures in your pocket as well.
“Be part of the signature experience” and embark on a journey through London that’s as unique and memorable as the coins you collect. Contact us today to plan your London adventure, and let the treasure hunt begin!
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