Johnson’s Dictionary 50p Coin 2005 | Value, Rarity & Guide

Interested in the value of the 50p Johnson’s Dictionary 1755? This page explains everything you need to know about this commemorative issue, including its collector value and rarity. Our numismatic expertise allows us to provide an accurate valuation of the 1755 50 pence coin in every grade of preservation.

Value of the Johnson’s Dictionary 50 pence coin 1755

If you are interested in this 50p coin, it is worth knowing that it is one of the most widely issued British commemorative coins. Thanks to its very high mintage, it is relatively easy to find and remains an affordable addition to most collections.

The table below lists the value of the 1755 Dictionary 50 pence for each numismatic grade. Keep in mind that the prices shown apply to coins in good condition. If your coin has circulated heavily and shows significant wear, it is unlikely to be worth much more than its face value.

2005 – 250th anniversary of Johnson’s Dictionary
2005 - 250th anniversary of Johnson’s Dictionary 540
UNC
BU
Proof
Value
£2
£5
£5
Mintage
17 ,649, 000
92 ,522
40, 563
2009 – 40 Years of the 50p Set
Value
None Struck
None Struck
£35
Mintage
None Struck
None Struck
1,039

What event is commemorated by this issue?

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The 1755 Johnson’s Dictionary 50p coin was issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Samuel Johnson’s A Dictionary of the English Language, first published in 1755. Considered one of the most influential dictionaries ever produced, it played a major role in standardising English spelling, definitions and usage for generations.

The reverse design features a selection of words arranged in the shape of an open dictionary, reflecting Johnson’s remarkable contribution to the English language. Some collectors refer to this issue as the 50p 1755 Saxon, as the word “Saxon” appears prominently on the reverse. However, this inscription is simply one of the dictionary entries featured in the design and does not represent the official name or subject of the commemorative coin.

Is the 50p coin Johnson’s Dictionary part of a series?

No. This commemorative issue was released as an individual design and does not belong to any commemorative series. It was created solely to mark the 250th anniversary of Samuel Johnson’s A Dictionary of the English Language.

If you enjoyed learning about this issue, we invite you to explore our articles on the other British commemorative coins. Each page explains the history behind the design, provides mintage information, and includes an up-to-date collector valuation.

Single-issue 50 pence for circulation
50 years NHS
25 years in EU
Public Libraries
Suffragettes
Roger Bannister
Johnson’s Dictionary
Scouting
Kew Gardens
Girlguiding
50 years WWF
Benjamin Britten
Christopher Ironside
Glasgow Commonwealth Games
Battle of Britain
Battle of Hastings
Rio Olympics
Isaac Newton
People Act
Conan Doyle
Brexit
Diversity Built Britain
50 years of Pride
Legacy of the Queen