50 New Pence
UK 50 Pence (Large Type)
United Kingdom · 1978
An equilateral curve heptagon coin featuring the second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and Britannia seated beside a lion on the reverse.
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Year
- 1978
- Denomination
- 50 New Pence
- Metal
- Cupro-Nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel)
This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.
Identified More united kingdom coins →
Explore UK 50 Pence (Large Type) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own coins.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Overview
An equilateral curve heptagon coin featuring the second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and Britannia seated beside a lion on the reverse.
Historical significance
Introduced in 1969 ahead of UK decimalization in 1971, the 50 pence coin was the world's first heptagonal circulating coin, specifically shaped with a constant breadth to work in vending machines.
Obverse (front)
Second crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Legend reads 'ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 1978'.
Reverse (back)
Britannia seated beside a lion, holding a trident and an olive branch, with a shield bearing the Union Flag behind her. The denomination 'NEW PENCE' arches above and '50' is centered below.
Estimated value
$0.75 - $2.00 in circulated condition
What drives this coin's value
Condition grade, presence of PVC damage or corrosion, and rare proof-only or error strikes for the year.
Grade assessment
Fine to Very Fine (circulated with minor surface marks and toning/green oxidation spots)
Mintage & rarity
Common (Over 40 million minted in 1978)
Authenticity & counterfeit red flags
Check weight (13.5g) and ensure it passes non-magnetic tests for standard cupro-nickel composition.
Notable varieties & errors
Look for rare mule errors or off-center strikes, though most circulating 1978 50p coins are standard business strikes.
Similar coins
Later smaller-sized UK 50p coins issued from 1997 onwards
Care & preservation
Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid harsh cleaning or chemical dips to preserve original surfaces and value.
More like this
Other united kingdom coins
United Kingdom Five Pence
United Kingdom · 2008-Present
5 Pence
United Kingdom Two Pence
United Kingdom · 1981
2 Pence
United Kingdom Two Pence
United Kingdom · 1985-1997 range
2 Pence
United Kingdom Two Pence
United Kingdom · 1988
Two Pence (2p)
United Kingdom New Penny
United Kingdom · 1971
1 New Penny
United Kingdom New Penny
United Kingdom · 1977
1 New Penny
