Royal Mint unveils 2023 Atlantic Salmon 50p as rarest coin

The Royal Mint has revealed that His Majesty King Charles III’s Atlantic Salmon 50p is now the rarest 50p coin in active circulation, with only 200,000 released to UK banks and post offices.

This marks a significant shift in the world of coin collecting, as the Atlantic Salmon coin takes the crown from the iconic 2009 Kew Gardens 50p, which held the title for the past 15 years.

Released at the end of 2023, the Atlantic Salmon 50p was part of the nation’s tribute to King Charles III’s coronation year.

The coin has now officially overtaken the Kew Gardens 50p, which had a mintage of 210,000 when it was introduced in 2009, becoming the most sought-after 50p in circulation.

Since its introduction in 1969, the 50p has become the UK’s most collectable coin, with over 100 designs featured on its reverse.

These include commemorative designs such as those for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games, and significant royal events, including the latest milestone—King Charles III’s coronation.

Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, said:
“The release of mintage figures is an eagerly anticipated event among the coin-collecting community – and this year is particularly exciting as we reveal the Atlantic Salmon as the rarest 50p in circulation.”

“For the first time in 15 years, the highly collectable Kew Gardens 50p loses its top spot as the rarest in circulation, with the Atlantic Salmon 50p splashing its way to number one.”

She added, “2023 marked pivotal changes for the nation’s coinage, including the introduction of coins celebrating King Charles III’s coronation entering circulation.”

“Finding these special designs, like the Atlantic Salmon, in your change is a win for all collectors.”

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