MINT SOURCE
Where is the Royal Mint and when can I strike my own Brexit 50p coin?
A NEW commemorative 50p coin will be introduced into circulation to mark Britain's departure from the EU next week.
Here we look at the Royal Mint, the largest coin maker in the world.
1
Where is the Royal Mint?
While The Royal Mint is now based in Llantrisant, Wales.
The 38 acres plant has been located here since 1968.
Before this it was located at Royal Mint Court near Tower Bridge in London after replacing a mint at the Tower of London.
What does the Royal Mint do?
The Royal Mint has been making currency for more than 1000 years.
As the world's leading export mint, the Royal Mint makes coins and medals for more countries than anyone else.
But its first responsibility is to make and distribute United Kingdom coins as well as to supply blanks and official medals.
The Mint, which is 100 percent owned by the Treasury, pays a dividend to the government each year.
When does the Royal Mint release commemorative coins?
As well as producing circulating coinage for the UK government, the Royal Mint produce commemorative coins and medals to mark events in British history.
Nicola Howell, the chief commercial officer at the Royal Mint, said: “Our 2020 annual set commemorates a broad range of important historical events and people that have had a huge impact in how we live our lives today.
"Not only that, but in support of how proud they have made our nation, both in the past and present, we’re delighted to have unveiled a Team GB 2020 50p coin in support of our athletes heading to the Tokyo Olympic Games this summer."
MOST READ IN NEWS
How can I mint my own 50p Brexit coin?
As part of the launch of the Brexit 50p coin, the Royal Mint will open its doors for 24 hours to its plant in Wales to let people strike their own commemorative Brexit coins.
The Chancellor has now unveiled coins bearing the inscription "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations" and the date of January 31.
He said: "Leaving the European Union is a turning point in our history and this coin marks the beginning of this new chapter."
About three million Brexit coins will enter circulation around the UK from Friday, with a further seven million to be added later in the year.
Topics