Five new 50p coins themed around classic pantomimes such as Snow White, Aladdin and Cinderella have been launched today.
Credit: Westminster Collection
Jack and the Beanstalk and Dick Whittington are also amongst the famous on stage stories displayed on the new coins made to mark the upcoming festive season.
All five of them feature the title of the panto alongside an illustration by artist Ian Rank-Broadley, as well as being stamped with the year 2019.
For example, the Aladdin coin has a flying carpet and magic lamp on it, while Jack and the Beanstalk sees a boy climbing a giant plant.
Credit: Westminster Collection
Due to the fact that the pieces are being released by the Guernsey Treasury, they won’t be spendable in the UK, meaning it’s unlikely that they’ll turn up in change for your shopping.
But you can get your hands on the full commemorative set from the Westminster Collection website, with a set of five cupro-nickel coins costing £30.
Meanwhile, a coloured version of the set with set you back a rather hefty £325.
If you’re thinking of treating yourself to the special release, be aware to factor in the £3.99 shipping fee for the silver set and £4.99 for the coloured.
Credit: Westminster Collection
It’s also advisable to get ordering sharpish, as the 25,000 Gruffalo edition coins sold out in just a day.
Four thousand of each coin design will then be released into circulation on the British Isle later in October.
Because the coins aren’t made by the Royal Mint, they won’t be able to be used as tender in the UK, despite being authorised by the Queen.
The coins may become highly sought over, similar to the Kew Gardens edition 50p which is now said to be one of the rarest in circulation and worth around £150 on Ebay.
