United Kingdom: Coin Fifty Pence 1996 (Proof and mint sets only) - detailed information

The British decimal fifty pence (50p) coin - often pronounced fifty pee - is a unit of currency equalling one half of a pound sterling. It is a seven-sided coin formed as an equilateral-curve heptagon, or Reuleaux polygon - a curve of constant width, meaning that the diameter is constant across any bisection. This shape, which was revolutionary at the time, made it easily distinguishable from round coins both by feel and by sight, while its constant breadth allowed it to roll in vending machines.

The denomination was introduced in October 1969 when the 50p joined the 5p (shilling) and 10p (florin) coins in circulation, leaving only the three copper coins to be introduced on 15 February 1971 to complete the new series of decimal coins; unlike other coin types at the time though, the 50 pence coin was not made equivalent to a pre-decimal coin (it was the same as a crown in value but not in appearance or size).

Twenty pence and fifty pence coins are legal tender only up to the sum of £10; this means that it is permissible to refuse payment of sums greater than this amount in 20p and 50p coins in order to settle a debt.

No 50p coins were issued for circulation in 1996. 86,501 coins were struck for the Royal Mint's brilliant uncirculated sets plus 46,295 in standard proof sets and 21,286 proofs distributed in a red leather case.

The 50p coin was reduced in size in 1997 and the older (large) coins were removed from circulation; they were demonetised in 1998. The design of the new (small) type remained unchanged.

Crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a pearl necklace, facing right (effigy known as the "Third Portrait"); incuse in tiny letters on neck truncation, the designer's initials RDM (for Raphael David Maklouf).

Around, the monarch's legend and the date: ELIZABETH II D · G · REG · F · D · 1996. Translated from Latin: Elizabeth the Second, by the grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith 1996.

The reverse features a figure of Britannia - traditional on British coinage since 1672. She is seated beside a lion, with a shield decorated with the crosses of the union flag resting against her right side, holding a trident in her right hand and an olive branch in her left hand, with the figure 50 below (in exergue) and the inscription FIFTY PENCE around above.