The Royal Mint has unveiled a new 50p coin to mark 100 years of the Grand Prix in Britain, the first time motorsport has been featured on an official UK coin. The coin was revealed at Brooklands in Weybridge, Surrey, the venue that hosted Britain's first Grand Prix in August 1926, and was pictured alongside a Delage car from that era.
Design and Features
Designed in collaboration with London-based agency Interstate, the 'tails' side of the coin captures the sweep of Grand Prix history and technological evolution. It features a historic racing car from the original 1926 Brooklands race sitting alongside a 2026 Formula 1 car. A selection of the coins also include colour accents.
Official Statements
Rebecca Morgan, director at The Royal Mint, said: 'For 100 years, the Grand Prix in Britain has captured the nation's imagination, from the thundering engines at Brooklands to the wheel-to-wheel battles at Silverstone. This coin is a true landmark for us. It is the first time in The Royal Mint's history that motorsport has been celebrated on a UK coin, and we couldn't be prouder to mark such a momentous centenary in this way. Whether you're a dedicated collector or a Formula 1 fan counting down the days to race weekend, this coin is an absolute must-have piece of history you can hold in your hand.'
Alex Patterson, chief executive of Brooklands Museum, added: 'We are thrilled that The Royal Mint has chosen to celebrate this very special centenary celebration with Brooklands Museum. The 1926 race was a defining moment not just for Brooklands but for the development of international motor racing in the UK, and it is fitting that it is commemorated by this very special coin.'
Historical Context and Availability
The British Grand Prix has been held at Silverstone since 1948. The gold version of the coin is produced from recycled gold sourced from old jewellery and coins, aligning with The Royal Mint's goal to produce all collectable gold coins from recycled material by the end of the year. The coin launches at 9am on Monday, with prices starting from £15. From July 7 until August 2, visitors can strike their own Grand Prix in Britain 50p at The Royal Mint Experience in London.
