The Benjamin Bunny 50p is one of the most popular coins from the Beatrix Potter commemorative series issued by the Royal Mint. Released in 2017, it was created to celebrate the famous children’s author and her timeless characters. The coin quickly gained attention among collectors and the general public.
Although it is not the rarest of the Beatrix Potter coins, it is often searched for online because of its design and popularity. Many people still ask: What is the Benjamin Bunny 50p worth today? This guide explores its history, design, mintage, value, and collectability in detail.
History of the Benjamin Bunny 50p
The Royal Mint first introduced the Beatrix Potter 50p collection in 2016 to mark the 150th anniversary of the author’s birth. Due to the success of the initial release, more coins were added in subsequent years. The Benjamin Bunny 50p joined the collection in 2017 as part of the second wave.
Benjamin Bunny is a beloved character in Beatrix Potter’s tales. He is the cousin of Peter Rabbit and often featured in adventures that capture the imagination of children and adults alike. The inclusion of this character in the series made the coin especially appealing to collectors and fans of the stories.
Design and Specifications
The reverse design of the Benjamin Bunny 50p was created by Emma Noble, who designed all of the Beatrix Potter coins. It features Benjamin Bunny wearing his signature large hat and jacket, based on the original illustrations by Beatrix Potter.
The obverse design shows the fifth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. This is the same design featured on other 50p coins during that period.
Benjamin Bunny 50p Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year of issue | 2017 |
| Reverse designer | Emma Noble |
| Obverse designer | Jody Clark |
| Diameter | 27.3mm |
| Weight | 8g |
| Composition | Cupro-nickel |
This design and specification make it consistent with standard UK 50p coins, which ensures it can circulate alongside other fifty pence pieces.
Mintage Figures of the 2017 Coin
The Benjamin Bunny 50p was minted in very large numbers. The Royal Mint produced 25,000,000 coins for circulation, making it the most common coin in the Beatrix Potter 50p collection.
When compared with rarer coins in the same series, such as the Jemima Puddle-Duck 50p (with only 2.1 million in circulation), it becomes clear that the Benjamin Bunny 50p is far more common. This high mintage is the main reason its market value has remained low.
Benjamin Bunny 50p Worth in 2017 and Today
When it was released in 2017, the Benjamin Bunny 50p had a standard face value of 50 pence. Over time, collector demand has influenced its resale price, although its abundance means it has not risen significantly.
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Circulated coins: Usually worth 50p–£1, depending on condition.
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Brilliant Uncirculated coins: These coins, sold in protective packs, often sell for £3–£6.
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Silver Proof coins: Limited edition versions in silver can fetch £50–£100+, depending on presentation and condition.
While it is not considered rare, its place in the Beatrix Potter set ensures continued collector interest.
Benjamin Bunny 50p Worth 2017 Error Coins
Some collectors claim to have found error versions of the Benjamin Bunny 50p. Reported errors include off-centre strikes, missing details, or doubled designs. These types of minting errors can make a coin significantly more valuable.
However, the Royal Mint has not confirmed any official widespread errors for this coin. Genuine mint errors are rare and can be valued anywhere from £50 to several hundred pounds, depending on how noticeable the mistake is. Collectors should be cautious, as many so-called “errors” are actually just circulation damage.
Collectability and Investment
Despite its large circulation, the still highly collectible. This is because it forms part of the complete Beatrix Potter 50p set, which many collectors aim to complete.
From an investment perspective, it is unlikely to see a large increase in value due to its high mintage numbers. However, proof versions and uncirculated editions may continue to hold strong long-term appeal, especially when included in presentation sets.
For most collectors, its true worth lies in its cultural significance and its role in completing the wider collection, rather than in rarity or high resale value.
How to Check Your Coin’s Value
If you want to check how much your Benjamin Bunny 50p worth, there are several factors to consider:
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Condition – Coins in excellent or mint condition are more valuable.
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Type of coin – Circulated, Brilliant Uncirculated, or Proof editions.
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Error status – Rare, genuine minting errors increase value significantly.
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Market demand – Popularity among collectors can change prices.
Trusted ways to check the value include specialist coin websites, collector forums, or coin dealers. Selling can be done through eBay, coin shops, or collectors’ fairs.
Visual Guide and Specifications Table
| Specification | Information |
|---|---|
| Coin name | Benjamin Bunny 50p |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Series | Beatrix Potter 50p collection |
| Circulation mintage | 25 million |
| Value in circulation | 50p–£1 |
| BU coin value | £3–£6 |
| Silver proof value | £50–£100+ |
Also Read:Diversity Built Britain 50p: A Tribute to Unity and Culture
( FAQs )
How much is the 2017 Benjamin Bunny 50p worth today?
Most circulation coins are worth around 50p–£1, while uncirculated versions can reach £6. Silver Proof editions are worth much more.
Is the Benjamin Bunny 50p rare?
No. With 25 million coins minted, it is one of the most common Beatrix Potter coins in circulation.
What is the value of Benjamin Bunny 50p error coins?
Genuine error coins can be worth £50–£200 or more, but confirmed examples are very rare.
How many Benjamin Bunny 50p coins were made in 2017?
The Royal Mint produced 25 million Benjamin Bunny coins for circulation.
Where can I sell a Benjamin Bunny 50p?
You can sell your coin through online marketplaces, coin dealers, or at collectors’ fairs. Always compare prices before selling.
Conclusion
The Benjamin Bunny 50p is a charming coin from the 2017 Beatrix Potter collection, celebrating one of the most loved characters in British literature. Although it is not rare due to its high mintage, it remains an important part of the set.
In terms of worth, most circulation coins are modest in value, but uncirculated, proof, and genuine error coins can be far more valuable. For collectors, its main appeal lies in completing the Beatrix Potter 50p series, ensuring that it will remain a sought-after coin for years to come.
