50 Pence - Elizabeth II (Johnson's Dictionary; Gold Proof) 2005-2009 front 50 Pence - Elizabeth II (Johnson's Dictionary; Gold Proof) 2005-2009 back
50 Pence - Elizabeth II (Johnson's Dictionary; Gold Proof) 2005-2009 photo
© The Royal Mint, 2005

50 Pence - Elizabeth II Johnson's Dictionary; Gold Proof

 
Gold (.9167) 15.5 g 27.3 mm
Description
Issuer
United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
Queen
Elizabeth II (1952-2022)
Type
Non-circulating coin
Years
2005-2009
Value
50 Pence 0.50 GBP = USD 0.66
Currency
Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date)
Composition
Gold (.9167)
Weight
15.5 g
Diameter
27.3 mm
Shape
Equilateral curve heptagon (7-sided)
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#275323
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Entries from Samuel Johnson's Dictionary of the English Language, defining the denomination in words.

Lettering:
·50·
FI'FTY.adj
.s.[ƑiƑtiʒ, Saxon.
PENCE. n. S.
plural of penny.
JOHNSON'S DICTIONARY 1755
TP

Engraver: Tom Phillips

Edge

Plain

Comment

Released individually in 2005 while also being struck in copper-nickel, silver proof and silver piedfort. The coin was re-issued in 2009 as part of the 16-piece set (70 sales) to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 50 pence denomination. The 2009 issue was also struck in copper-nickel, silver proof and gold piedfort. Issue limit: 70.

©The Royal Mint, 2009

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique design that pays tribute to Samuel Johnson's Dictionary, which was first published in 1755. The coin's reverse side depicts a vignette of Johnson's dictionary, along with a quote from the dictionary's preface: "The only end of writing is to enable the readers better to enjoy life." This design was created by sculptor and engraver, Ian Rank-Broadley, and was used for a series of coins issued between 2005 and 2009.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
2005  584 - - - - - -
2009  70 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 50 Pence - Elizabeth II (Johnson's Dictionary; Gold Proof) 2005-2009 coin.