With just over five million coins released into general circulation in the UK, the 1998 European Union 50p is relatively common. However, because it has now been in circulation for more than 25 years, finding a truly high-grade example is increasingly difficult unless it has been kept safely in a coin collection since issue.
The Royal Mint issued this special 50p in 1998 to mark two important milestones: the 25th anniversary of the United Kingdom’s membership of the European Union and its Presidency of the Council of Ministers. It was the first time these two roles coincided, making the coin a snapshot of a very specific moment in the UK’s modern political history.
The reverse design features a stylised table around which the twelve stars of the European Union are arranged, symbolising the member states working together. The inscription highlights the dual anniversary and Presidency, while the familiar portrait of Queen Elizabeth II appears on the obverse, as with other circulating 50p coins of the period.
Struck in cupronickel and issued for everyday use, most examples today show clear signs of circulation. As a result, collectors tend to look for coins with sharp detail and minimal wear, or for Brilliant Uncirculated and proof versions that were included in Royal Mint sets. These higher-quality pieces are especially appealing to collectors of commemorative 50p coins and modern UK decimal issues.
In 1998, the Royal Mint released a special 50p coin to mark two key milestones: the United Kingdom’s 25th anniversary of membership in the European Union and its Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
The 50p has long been associated with Europe-themed commemoratives. The UK's entry into the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973 was first celebrated with a special 50p coin, establishing the denomination as a natural choice for marking European milestones. It was used again in 1992/93 to recognise the UK’s Presidency of the Council of Ministers and the completion of the Single European Market. This 1998 issue continues that tradition, celebrating 25 years of EU membership and the UK’s six-month Presidency of the European Union.
Designed by John Mills, the reverse shows the twelve stars of the European Union surrounding the letters “EU,” with the dates “1973” and “1998” on either side. Beneath this sits the denomination “50 PENCE,” reflecting both the commemorative nature of the issue and the UK's place within the EU.
