A COMMEMORATIVE coin showing the Queen on horseback has been unveiled by the Royal Mint ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations this year.

Designed by artist John Bergdahl, the coin is the first collectable UK 50p to celebrate a royal event.

Marking 70 years on the throne, the Queen on horseback will be on the ‘heads’ side of a new 50p and traditional £5 crown.

Personally approved by the Queen, the Royal Mint said the design is reminiscent of the equestrian designs for the 1953 Coronation and 2002 Jubilee crown pieces.

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The Royal Mint’s divisional director of commemorative coin Clare Maclennan said: “The Platinum Jubilee is an historic occasion and one that is particularly special for The Royal Mint, as the original maker of British Coins for 1,100 years.

“Designed by esteemed artists and made with original craftsmanship, Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee coins are enduring pieces of art that will be collected, cherished and passed down for generations.”

Chris Barker, Royal Mint Museum historian added: “The Queen’s legacy on coins stretches the length of her momentous reign, with The Royal Mint striking five definitive portraits of Her Majesty on official UK coin and celebrating previous Jubilees.

“The 1977 Silver Jubilee crown was the first major UK commemorative coin produced at The Royal Mint’s Llantrisant home, after the minting in London ceased in 1975.

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“Roughly thirty-seven million coins were produced at that time, and thousands were gifted to children across the UK as a memento of the occasion.

“Today’s launch marks another significant milestone, and The Royal Mint plays a proud part in the nationwide celebrations.”