Fifty Pence 2024 RNLI, 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UK Fifty Pence coin was issued in 1969 with the classic Britannia reverse design by Christopher Ironside, which was superseded in 2008 by the Matthew Dent design for circulation coins.The denomination is also extensively used to issue circulating commemorative coins.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 marks the 200th anniversary of the RNLI.

The mint says about it:
Fueled by an ethos of courage and dedication, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has been saving lives at sea since 1824. Envisioned by Sir William Hillary after he observed many shipwrecks along the Manx coast, the service was initially named the Royal National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck, before it became the RNLI in 1854.

Designed by Lionel Lukin, the first purpose-built lifeboat was patented in 1785. In the two centuries since its foundation, the RNLI has pioneered ways of saving lives at sea. The introduction of the motor lifeboat in 1905 transformed the charity’s lifesaving abilities and from there it has adapted along with the evolution of boat engineering, from using a one-of-a-kind, fast motor lifeboat in 1930 to implementing inflatable lifeboats in 1963 to help crews reach areas close to shore, cliffs and caves. In 2001, the RNLI began providing lifeguard patrols and now operate on over 240 beaches across the UK and Channel Islands. Lifeguards provide in-water rescue, first aid, and speak to the public about water safety to prevent incidents from happening.

These 50 pence coins were struck in various collector formats but none were issued into general circulation.