1977 United Kingdom 50 Pence Coin, Second Portrait (Arnold Machin)
Coin/Bullion (Circulated Currency) · The Royal Mint (UK Government-owned mint), located in Llantrisant, Wales since 1968.
Pattern: Elizabeth II Decimal Coinage, 50p heptagonal series; reverse features Britannia seated.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Circulated Currency)
Maker
The Royal Mint (UK Government-owned mint), located in Llantrisant, Wales since 1968.
Material
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item contains 0% silver material despite its silvery appearance.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30 mm; Thickness: 2.5 mm; Weight: 13.5 grams (Large-sized specification used 1969-1997).
Description
A high-denomination British circulation coin featuring the classic Arnold Machin portrait of the Queen. Released during the Silver Jubilee year of Elizabeth II, though the coin itself is base metal. This specific 'large-sized' 50p was later replaced by a smaller version in 1997.
Key Features
Equilateral curve heptagon shape; 13.5g weight; Arnold Machin portrait; 1977 date; large-diameter format.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item contains 0% silver material despite its silvery appearance.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck circulation finish; obverse features the second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Decorative rim is a Reuleaux heptagon shape.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Stamped with 'D·G·REG·F·D·1977' (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor) and 'ELIZABETH II'. No assay marks as it is base metal.
Construction Details
Industrial high-speed die-striking/minting process; machine-made on a standard planchet.
Functional Features
Legal tender coinage; distinctive seven-sided shape (equilateral curve heptagon) designed for easy identification and use in vending machines.
Handle & Grip Details
None; edge is smooth/plain (non-reeded).
Craftsmanship Details
Standard state-sponsored industrial minting; clear relief on the portrait but lacks the hand-finishing of proof or precious metal strikes.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck lettering consistency, correct heptagonal geometry, standard 1977 date font, and specific wear patterns characteristic of cupro-nickel circulation.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom; manufactured at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, South Wales.
Era & Period
Modern Decimalization Era (Post-1971 UK currency transition).
Age Estimate
Dated 1977; 47 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the UK decimalization transition; the 50p was the world's first heptagonal coin, representing a breakthrough in modern numismatic design.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface abrasions, heavy circulation scratches (bag marks), and edge nicks. No visible luster remaining.
Value Estimate
Face value (£0.50) or approximately $0.65 - $1.00 USD in this circulated condition. No significant numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with silver cream as it is cupro-nickel; store in a PVC-free coin flip to prevent further 'zinc pest' or corrosion; handle by the edges.
Similar Pieces
1977 Silver Jubilee Crown (25p), which is larger and circular; 1997-present small-type 50p coins; Silver Proof versions of the 50p (which lack the dull gray patina of this piece).
Interesting Facts
1977 was the year of the Queen's Silver Jubilee, but this is a standard circulation coin. More than 21 million of these were minted in 1977 alone.