The Battle of Hastings 50p coin is one of the most popular commemorative coins among UK collectors. It’s not just a piece of currency — it’s a little slice of British history in your pocket. Released by The Royal Mint to mark one of the most famous battles in English history, this coin continues to spark curiosity among coin enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the story behind the Battle of Hastings, the design and significance of the Battle of Hastings 50p, how rare it really is, what it’s worth, and how you can collect and care for it. Let’s dive in.
1. The History Behind the Battle of Hastings
To understand why the Battle of Hastings 50p was created, you first need to appreciate the monumental event it commemorates.
The Battle of Hastings took place on October 14, 1066, and marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in England. The battle was fought between the Norman-French army, led by William, Duke of Normandy, and the English army, led by King Harold Godwinson. It ended with Harold’s death and William’s victory, forever changing English history.
The outcome of the battle was immense — William the Conqueror became the first Norman King of England, introducing Norman culture, language, and governance. The event reshaped everything from architecture to the English language itself.
Fast forward 950 years later, in 2016, The Royal Mint decided to commemorate this pivotal moment with the release of the Battle of Hastings 50p coin. It wasn’t just a tribute to a historic event — it was also a celebration of heritage, artistry, and British identity.
2. The Design of the Battle of Hastings 50p
The design of the Battle of Hastings 50p immediately stands out as one of the most striking among modern British coins.
The reverse (tails) side of the coin was designed by John Bergdahl, a well-known artist who has worked on numerous Royal Mint designs. He drew inspiration from the Bayeux Tapestry, a famous embroidered cloth that visually narrates the events leading up to and during the Battle of Hastings.
The coin depicts a figure from the tapestry — believed to be King Harold himself — struck in the eye by an arrow, just moments before his defeat. This dramatic imagery perfectly captures the defining moment of the battle, immortalizing it in miniature form.
On the obverse (heads) side of the coin, you’ll find the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by artist Jody Clark. This was the fifth official portrait of the late Queen used on British coinage, showing her in her later years wearing the royal diadem.
Every detail on the Battle of Hastings 50p pays homage to England’s history while showcasing modern minting craftsmanship.
3. Key Specifications of the Coin
Here are the technical details for the Battle of Hastings 50p:
- Year of Issue: 2016
- Denomination: Fifty Pence (50p)
- Metal Composition: Cupro-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel)
- Weight: 8.00 grams
- Diameter: 27.3 mm
- Shape: Heptagonal (7-sided)
- Designer (Reverse): John Bergdahl
- Designer (Obverse): Jody Clark
- Mintage (2016): Approximately 6.7 million coins
In 2019, the Royal Mint also released a Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) reissue of the coin as part of the “50 Years of the 50p” collection, giving new collectors a chance to own it in pristine condition.
4. How Rare Is the Battle of Hastings 50p?
When collectors talk about “rare 50p coins,” the Battle of Hastings 50p often comes up. But is it really rare?
With a mintage of around 6.7 million in 2016, it’s not one of the rarest 50p coins in circulation. For comparison, the famous Kew Gardens 50p (2009) had a mintage of just 210,000, making it one of the rarest and most valuable UK coins.
That said, the Battle of Hastings 50p is still considered desirable because of its strong historical theme and attractive design. It’s also a key coin for anyone trying to complete a collection of commemorative 50p coins.
The 2019 Brilliant Uncirculated version is less common, especially if kept in its original packaging, and can command a premium among collectors.
5. What Is the Battle of Hastings 50p Worth?
The big question every collector asks: How much is my Battle of Hastings 50p worth?
The answer depends on the coin’s condition, rarity, and market demand.
- Circulated coins (those you might find in your change) typically sell for between £1.50 and £2.50.
- Uncirculated or Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) versions in Royal Mint packaging are usually worth £8 to £10.
- Proof coins or special editions (if sealed or graded professionally) can reach £15 to £20 or more depending on market trends.
It’s important to note that, despite some social media claims of people selling these coins for hundreds of pounds, standard versions of the Battle of Hastings 50p are not worth a fortune. Always check reliable sources like The Royal Mint or reputable numismatic dealers for accurate valuation.
6. How to Identify an Authentic Battle of Hastings 50p
To make sure you have a genuine coin, here’s what to look for:
- Year: The coin should read 2016 beneath the Queen’s portrait (or 2019 if it’s a BU reissue).
- Design: The reverse features the Bayeux Tapestry-inspired figure with an arrow striking the eye.
- Shape: Like all UK 50p coins, it has a 7-sided shape.
- Edge: Smooth, not milled.
- Weight: 8 grams.
If you find a coin that looks slightly different — thicker, misaligned, or with unusual edges — it could be a minting error, which may increase its value. Always get such coins checked by a trusted coin dealer or grading service.
7. Why Collectors Love the Battle of Hastings 50p
There are several reasons collectors are drawn to this coin:
- Historical Importance: It commemorates one of the most significant events in English history.
- Eye-Catching Design: The Bayeux Tapestry-inspired artwork stands out among modern coin designs.
- Affordable Entry Point: Even new collectors can afford it, making it a great starting coin.
- Part of a Bigger Story: The coin forms part of the Royal Mint’s larger collection celebrating iconic British moments.
Because of these qualities, the Battle of Hastings 50p continues to hold steady demand among UK coin enthusiasts.
8. Tips for Collecting and Storing Your Coin
If you own or plan to collect the Battle of Hastings 50p, here are some expert tips:
- Avoid Handling It Directly: Always hold coins by the edges or wear gloves to prevent fingerprints.
- Store Properly: Use coin capsules or acid-free holders to prevent oxidation and scratches.
- Keep It Dry: Store in a cool, dry place to avoid tarnishing.
- Document Everything: If you have certificates or Royal Mint packaging, keep them intact — they add value.
- Check for Errors: Look closely for minting errors such as doubled edges or misstrikes, as these can be worth more.
- Follow Market Trends: Coin values can change. Stay updated with Royal Mint news or collector websites like Change Checker.
9. The 2019 Reissue – A Fresh Chance for Collectors
Three years after the original release, The Royal Mint reissued the Battle of Hastings 50p in 2019 as part of the “50 Years of the 50p” anniversary collection.
This set celebrated the evolution of the 50p coin since its introduction in 1969. The Battle of Hastings 50p was chosen for inclusion because it perfectly represents British heritage and design innovation.
The 2019 version was never released into general circulation — meaning it was only available in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) quality, packaged for collectors. As a result, it remains much rarer and in superior condition compared to the 2016 version.
10. Selling and Buying the Battle of Hastings 50p
If you’re thinking about selling your Battle of Hastings 50p, or perhaps buying one to complete your collection, here’s what you should know:
Where to Sell:
- Reputable online marketplaces such as eBay (use caution and check completed listings).
- Coin fairs or collector groups.
- Professional dealers and numismatic shops.
Where to Buy:
- The Royal Mint’s official store for uncirculated or proof editions.
- Trusted coin retailers like Change Checker or Westminster Collection.
- Coin collector websites and forums.
Before buying, always verify authenticity and check seller feedback. When selling, provide clear photos and accurate descriptions to attract serious buyers.
11. The Legacy of the Battle of Hastings 50p
The Battle of Hastings 50p is more than a collector’s item — it’s a piece of storytelling through design.
Coins like this allow everyday people to engage with history tangibly. The detailed imagery connects modern Britain to its medieval roots, serving as a miniature monument to the event that reshaped the nation nearly a millennium ago.
While it may not be among the rarest coins, it carries a legacy that no other modern coin can match — a celebration of courage, conquest, and cultural change, all preserved on a small silver piece of metal.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Battle of Hastings 50p coin?
The Battle of Hastings 50p is a commemorative coin released by The Royal Mint in 2016 to mark the 950th anniversary of the 1066 battle. It features a design inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry and is popular among collectors.
2. How many Battle of Hastings 50p coins were made?
Approximately 6.7 million coins were minted for circulation in 2016. The 2019 reissue was only available in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) quality and was not released into general circulation.
3. How much is the Battle of Hastings 50p worth?
In circulated condition, it’s typically worth £1.50 to £2.50. Uncirculated or proof versions can be worth £8 to £20 depending on packaging and demand.
4. Is the Battle of Hastings 50p a rare coin?
It’s not considered extremely rare, but it is highly collectible. The 2016 version is common, while the 2019 BU reissue is rarer since it wasn’t circulated.
5. How can I sell my Battle of Hastings 50p?
You can sell through online marketplaces, coin fairs, or reputable dealers. Always check current market values, provide clear photos, and describe the condition accurately to get a fair price.
Conclusion
The Battle of Hastings 50p remains one of the most fascinating coins in modern British history. With its rich backstory, eye-catching design, and accessible value, it bridges the gap between casual collecting and serious numismatics. Whether you found one in your spare change or purchased a pristine BU version, it’s a worthy addition to any coin collection.
As time goes on, its historical and collectible value is only likely to grow — proving that even a small 50p coin can carry centuries of history within its heptagonal frame.
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