In 2016 we celebrate a momentous cultural milestone, marking 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare. The Royal Mint is proud to strike a range of coins which celebrate every aspect of the man and his timeless words. These coins have been endorsed by world-leading experts at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and are the only official United Kingdom coins to mark this anniversary. This £50 coin is struck in fine silver to Brilliant Uncirculated standard.

William Shakespeare, also known as The Bard of Avon, was perhaps the greatest writer who ever lived, a national icon and titan of English literature. His works remain as relevant and compelling today as they were when they were first performed during Tudor times. His is a treasure trove of theatrical masterpieces; their craft, wit and brilliance transcends the ages.

It’s only fitting that this £50 coin honours the playwright and his legacy in the year of the 400th anniversary of his death. The coin features an original design by seasoned coinage artist John Bergdahl and his choice of two masks portrayed as the writer himself perfectly captures the two sides of Shakespeare – comedy and tragedy. This coin is a commemorative coin. Commemorative coins are generally treasured for their aesthetic, collectible or rarity value, by those who appreciate the detailed hand-finished processes and expert skills used to make them. All coins made by The Royal Mint are legal tender whether commemorative or circulating, however, only circulating legal tender coins are designed to be spent and traded at businesses and banks.

This coin is a commemorative coin so banks, post offices and shops will not accept them. If individual customers wish to discuss the return of this coin now or in the future please contact our customer services team on 0345 60 88 300.