The Royal Mint has begun the rollout of a brand new 50p coin, a special commemorative issue that will cost UK households from £15. The coin, launched to honour the iconic Concorde aircraft, became available for purchase from 9am on Tuesday, 13 January 2026.
A Design Celebrating a Supersonic Legend
Created by the design agency Osborne Ross, the coin's reverse (tails) side features a striking depiction of Concorde in flight. The aircraft is set against a backdrop of a classic split-flap departure board, with the name 'Concorde' boldly displayed across the centre. The Royal Mint stated that this production continues its long tradition of celebrating British achievements that have made a significant global impact.
Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at the Royal Mint, commented on the release. "Concorde represents the very best of British innovation," she said. "The design perfectly captures Concorde’s grace and power. We’re thrilled to mark this significant anniversary with a coin that honours both the aircraft and the engineers whose genius made supersonic travel a reality." She also noted the particular appropriateness of the tribute, reflecting the role Concorde engineers played in designing the distinctive shape of the UK's 50p piece.
Personal Tributes from Concorde's History
The launch has been met with enthusiasm from those connected to the aircraft's storied past. Former chief engineer of Concorde, John Britton, shared his pride in the commemorative issue. "To celebrate Concorde on an official UK coin is a proud moment for everyone who dedicated their careers to keeping her in the sky," he said.
Britton also highlighted the personal significance, adding, "For me personally, it means my children and grandchildren will be able to hold a piece of that legacy in their hands and understand what British engineering achieved all those years ago." He reminisced about Concorde's unparalleled capabilities, noting it could outpace the Earth's rotation and cross the Atlantic in under three and a half hours. "Passengers could see the curvature of the earth and the dark blue hue of the sky from 10 miles high," he recalled.
An Enduring Legacy in British Aviation
The sentiment is echoed by British Airways, for whom Concorde remains a defining chapter. Hamish McVey, Director of Marketing at British Airways, said, "Concorde remains a defining chapter in our history at British Airways, demonstrating a commitment to British innovation and ingenuity that continues at the heart of our brand today. We’re proud to see this milestone commemorated by The Royal Mint, a testament to the deep affection and lasting connection so many still feel for this remarkable aircraft."
The new Concorde 50p coin is now on sale directly from The Royal Mint, with prices starting at £15 for the standard brilliant uncirculated version. This release offers collectors and aviation enthusiasts alike a tangible piece of British aerospace history.
