New Royal Mint 50p coin celebrates 100 years of British racing history ahead of Silverstone GP
Motorsport fans and coin collectors have a new piece of history to covet as The Royal Mint launches a special 50p coin to commemorate the centenary of the British Grand Prix.
The commemorative coin was unveiled at Brooklands in Weybridge, Surrey, the historic site that hosted Britain’s inaugural Grand Prix in August 1926, and was photographed next to a classic Delage car. This is the first time motorsport has been celebrated on an official UK coin.
Designed in collaboration with London-based agency Interstate, the ‘tail’ side vividly depicts the evolution of Grand Prix racing. It features a futuristic 2026 Formula 1 car as well as a historic car from the original 1926 Brooklands race. A select number of these coins will also contain color.
Rebecca Morgan, director of The Royal Mint, said: “For 100 years the British Grand Prix has captured the nation’s imagination, from roaring engines at Brooklands to wheel-to-wheel duels at Silverstone.
“This coin is a real milestone for us. It is the first time in the Royal Mint’s history that motorsport has been celebrated on a UK coin and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate such an important centenary in this way.
“Whether you are a dedicated collector or a Formula 1 fan counting down the days until the race weekend, this coin is a must-have piece of history that you can hold in your hand.”
Alex Patterson, managing director of Brooklands Museum, said: “We are thrilled that the Royal Mint has chosen to celebrate this very special centenary celebration with Brooklands Museum.
“The 1926 race was a defining moment not only for Brooklands but also for the development of international motor racing in the UK and it is fitting that it is commemorated with this very special coin.”
The British Grand Prix has been held at Silverstone since 1948.
The gold version of the British Grand Prix 50p is made from recycled gold from old jewelery and coins.
The Royal Mint said it aims to produce all collectible gold coins from recycled gold by the end of the year.
The coin launch starts at 9am on Monday and prices start from £15.
People will also be able to take in their own 50p British Grand Prix at The Royal Mint Experience from 7 July to 2 August.
