The National Lottery has introduced a limited-edition 'scratch-coin' for use with scratchcards, responding to a decline in cash usage among Britons. The coin, designed by London-based artist Hattie Stewart, is made from recycled materials and is slightly larger than a £2 coin. It features the brand's crossed-fingers logo, the slogan 'It could be you', and the number 30 to mark three decades since scratchcards first launched.
A survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by the National Lottery found that 65% of people do not carry cash most of the time. However, 40% of respondents reported being unable to pay for everyday items after being caught without coins or notes, with common issues including needing a coin for a shopping trolley, using a pay-per-use public toilet, or leaving a tip.
When purchasing a scratchcard without a coin, many Britons have turned to alternative methods: 40% used a key, and 13% used a pen. The scratch-coins are available from Saturday 23 May at selected retailers across the UK, free with the purchase of any National Lottery scratchcard while stocks last.
Artist Hattie Stewart, who has worked with brands such as Sephora, Nike, and Gucci, said: 'I wanted the coin to feel fun, celebratory and full of personality. I've been fortunate to have my designs featured on guitars, watches, clothing but never money. The idea of one of my designs being actually minted is really special.'
