The Royal Mint has unveiled a 50p coin to commemorate 100 years of the BBC.
The collectible coin is inscribed with the broadcaster's millstone, reading: "100 YEARS OF OUR BBC", as well as “inform, educate, entertain” – the values set out by Lord Reith when he founded the organisation in 1922. Coin enthusiasts are set to scoop the collectable coins up as they depict the late Queen Elizabeth II.
The coin’s depiction of the Queen is expected to create a “ high demand ” among collectors, a Royal Mint official said.
The new coins depict Her Majesty despite the King’s effigy being unveiled as they were produced before her death in September and will not be re-struck in order to “minimise waste or unnecessary environmental impact”.
The coin pays tribute to the BBC’s global reach by showing a broadcasting mast emerging from the earth.
“Coins are miniature pieces of art which tell the stories of our nation,” Rebecca Morgan, the Royal Mint’s director of collector services, said.
“We are delighted to be working with Britain’s leading national broadcaster to create a special 50p in recognition of their 100 years.
“An ever-present British institution for most people’s lives, the BBC has had a marked influence on our culture and broadcast some of the most extraordinary moments in British history.
”With the obverse side of the coin featuring the effigy of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth, we do anticipate a high demand for these coins from collectors.”
BBC director-general Tim Davie said the broadcaster was “honoured” by the commemorative coin, adding that its design “perfectly captures the BBC’s huge reach and impact”.
The 50p coin can be bought for £11 from the Royal Mint’s website.
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