Celebrate a landmark moment in British heritage with the 2009 Kew Gardens 50p coin, issued to mark the 250th anniversary of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. This commemorative coin honours one of the world’s most famous botanical institutions, known for its contribution to science and conservation.

The reverse design by Christopher Le Brun features the iconic Great Pagoda, one of Kew’s most recognisable landmarks. The structure is elegantly encircled by a climbing vine, symbolising growth and the natural world. The dates ‘1759’ and ‘2009’ appear on either side of the pagoda to mark the anniversary, with the word ‘Kew’ placed at the base of the design. The combination of architectural detail and botanical elements creates a distinctive and balanced composition.

The obverse features the fourth portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, shown wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. The denomination ‘FIFTY PENCE’ is also included as part of the obverse design, as seen on circulating coins of this period.

Struck in cupro-nickel to standard 50p specifications, the coin weighs 8 grams and measures 27.30 millimetres in diameter. It features the familiar seven-sided shape and a plain edge.

With a circulating mintage of just 210,000, the Kew Gardens 50p is one of the rarest coins in modern UK circulation. Issued in 2009, it has become a key piece for collectors of British decimal coinage and a lasting tribute to the rich history of Kew Gardens.

*Image is representative of the coin you will receive 

**Struck for general circulation and subsequently acquired by The Royal Mint from the secondary market.