Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The one-fortieth ounce (1/40 oz) gold coins are denominated as Fifty Pence (50p) and have been issued since 2014.
These tiny coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art. The coins are typically "one-year" types usually issued in parallel with other denominations with the same reverse designs.
The 2025 Year of the Snake coins are part of the Royal Mint's Shēngxiào Collection - a coin series dedicated to the Chinese Lunar calendar. The reverse design by US Mint designer Chris Costello has been inspired by the European adder snake.
The mint says:
"The Shēngxiào Collection continues with a coin celebrating the Year of the Snake. Those born under this sign often share the characteristics of strength, intelligence and adaptability."
The range was released on 5 September 2024, in advance of the Chinese Lunar Year of the Snake (29 January 2025 - 16 February 2026). | 
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