Featuring a striking lion and unicorn design, this commemorative issue has an interesting story behind it. If you are looking for the value of the 50p lion and unicorn, our estimates will help you determine how much your coin could be worth today. We also examine the rarity and different numismatic grades of the Christopher Ironside 2013 50 pence.
Value of the Christopher Ironside 50 pence coin 2013
With several million examples released into circulation, this issue is not considered a very rare 50 pence. It can still be found relatively easily today, although its unusual design and the story behind its creation make it an appealing piece for collectors.
The table below details the value of the lion and unicorn 2013 50 pence according to its numismatic grade. Well-preserved examples can attract a modest premium, whereas coins with significant wear or damage are generally worth little more than their face value.
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What event is commemorated by this issue?
 | Image of each 50p ever minted Meaning of all 50 pence coins Stories about some mintages Value for each numismatic grade |
The Christopher Ironside 50p coin was issued in 2013 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Christopher Ironside, the artist responsible for designing Britain’s first decimal coinage. When designs were being considered for the new decimal coins, Ironside submitted several proposals, including the lion and unicorn design featured on this commemorative issue.
This design was reportedly the runner-up in the selection process, finishing behind the famous Britannia design that was ultimately chosen for the original decimal 50 pence. To celebrate the centenary of Ironside’s birth, the Royal Mint revived this previously unused proposal, giving collectors the opportunity to see a design that had come very close to appearing on Britain’s circulating coinage decades earlier.
Is the 50p coin lion and unicorn part of a series?
No. This commemorative issue was created specifically to mark the 100th anniversary of Christopher Ironside’s birth and does not form part of a wider series. The design was selected as a tribute to his important contribution to Britain’s decimal coinage.
The table below is a good place to continue exploring other commemorative issues that were also released individually. Each was created to celebrate a particular person, event or anniversary rather than as part of a continuing collection.