Fifty Pence 2023 The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

The British fifty pence (50p) coin - often pronounced as "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 of its introduction, makes it easily distinguishable from round coins both by feel and by sight, while its constant breadth allows it to roll in vending machines.

The first UK Fifty Pence coin was issued in 1969 with the classic Britannia reverse design by Christopher Ironside, which was superseded in 2008 by the Matthew Dent design for circulation coins.The denomination is also extensively used to issue circulating commemorative coins.

Beginning in 2009, the Royal Mint started issuing 50 pence coins for collectors - such as this one - which are not meant to be released in circulation, so are classified as Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT).

This 50p commemorative coin celebrates The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis.

The mint says:
"First published in 1950, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe has enthralled many generations of readers for more than 70 years. The second book in C. S. Lewis’ classic fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia, tells the story of the Pevensie siblings as they step through a wardrobe and enter the magical realm of Narnia.

Part of our classic children’s literature series, this UK 50p coin pays tribute to Lewis’ masterpiece and its reverse features an illustration by Pauline Baynes from the original publication of the book."

No coins of this kind were issued into general circulation.