The Royal Mint has unveiled a new 50p coin marking 100 years of Grand Prix racing on British soil, making it the first time motorsport has ever appeared on an official UK coin. The Grand Prix in Britain 50p was produced in collaboration with London-based agency Interstate. The coin's tails side depicts a vintage racing car from the inaugural 1926 Brooklands race alongside a 2026 Formula 1 car, capturing the full scope of Grand Prix heritage and technological progress.
Historic First for UK Coinage
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." She added: "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."
Brooklands Museum Partnership
Alex Patterson, chief executive of Brooklands Museum, said: "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."
Availability and Pricing
The British Grand Prix has taken place at Silverstone since 1948. The gold version of the coin is fashioned from recycled gold obtained from old jewellery and coins. The Royal Mint revealed it is aiming to manufacture all collectible gold coins from recycled gold by the end of the year. The coin is available to purchase now with prices starting at £15 and rising to £2,420 for the gold proof version. The Grand Prix in Britain 50p can be purchased until August 2 at The Royal Mint Experience.
