The 2019 20th Anniversary Gruffalo silver proof 50p coin...
Few children’s stories have captured imaginations quite like The Gruffalo. First published in 1999, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved tale has been read to millions of children around the world, becoming one of the most iconic picture books of our time. In 2019, to celebrate the book’s 20th anniversary, The Royal Mint released a special commemorative coin – the 2019 Silver Proof Gruffalo 50p.
This coin quickly became a standout piece, not only for fans of the story but also for coin collectors and precious metal enthusiasts. Struck in .925 sterling silver to The Royal Mint’s Proof standard, it features a beautifully coloured design of the Gruffalo himself, standing in the deep dark wood just as he appears in the pages of the book. The detailing is exceptional, bringing Axel Scheffler’s original illustrations to life in a way that only fine minting can achieve.
With a denomination of 50p, this coin was never intended for everyday use but rather as a collector’s piece. Its value lies in both its precious metal content and its cultural significance. Limited mintage meant that it sold out quickly upon release, becoming highly sought after in the secondary market. Today, the coin appeals to both numismatists and fans of British children’s literature, bridging the gap between collectible art and precious metals.
What makes the 2019 Gruffalo 50p so special is the way it combines nostalgia with investment. For parents who once read the book to their children—or for those children now grown—it’s a coin that carries memories as well as value. And for collectors, it’s a perfect example of how modern commemoratives can celebrate culture while also preserving wealth in silver.
The Gruffalo may have been created as a story to entertain little ones, but thanks to The Royal Mint, he’s also made his mark on the world of precious metals. The 2019 Silver Proof 50p remains a charming reminder that sometimes the most treasured coins are those that tell a story.
