Struck in cupro-nickel and designed by Christopher Le Brun RA, this commemorative 50p coin celebrates the 250th anniversary of the foundation of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew.
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The coin features on the obverse the Queen’s portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS and the wording ELIZABETH II-D-G-REG-F-G as well as the denomination FIFTY PENCE.
In 1759 Princess Augusta devoted a few acres of her gardens at Kew to a ‘Physic Garden’ where rare and unusual plants were cultivated for study. It was the beginning of Kew’s destiny as a world leader in plant science. The gardens were originally two royal Estates – the Kew Estate and the Richmond Estate - but were combined by George III in the late eighteenth century. In the summer of 1771 the king met Joseph Banks who had just returned to England from a voyage with James Cook. His collection of plants and animals and portfolios impressed the king and their mutual interest in agriculture led to Banks presiding over the Royal Society for 42 years. He was also an active member of many other influential societies, and was admired for his entrepreneurial skills. Through his patronage and many initiatives Banks elevated Kew to a garden of national status and as a centre for botanical exploration in the colonies.
Kew Gardens was handed to the nation in 1841 and was awarded World Heritage Status in 2003. It is celebrated in 2009 with a splendid commemorative 50p coin. For the reverse, artist Christopher Le Brun has chosen to feature Kew's famous Chinese Pagoda.
During its long history as a royal estate and a government institution Kew has never lacked patrons or supporters. In recognition of its historic landscape, listed buildings,Herbarium and Library collections and its achievements in plant conservation, UNESCO awarded it World Heritage status in 2003.