British Milestones

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The British Royal Mint has unveiled a collection of 2026 commemorative coins that celebrate landmark anniversaries of some of the most influential people, institutions, and events in British history. The set marks several major milestones, including the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth II, 200 years of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the bicentenary of the HMS Beagle, 100 years of the British Grand Prix, and the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust.

Queen Elizabeth II

Britain’s longest-reigning monarch unexpectedly ascended the throne at age 25 after her uncle’s abdication. She is featured on more United Kingdom coins than any other monarch, and her image defined the Royal Mint until 2022. The £5 coin commemorating the 100th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth features an exclusive Lily of the Valley privy mark, honoring her favorite flower.

Zoological Society of London

Founded in 1826 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles to advance zoological science, ZSL is now a global conservation charity active in over 70 countries. With a science-led approach, it protects endangered species, restores habitats, and trains conservationists. The reverse of the UK £2 coin commemorating 200 years of the ZSL features three animals that symbolize its impact, with the edge inscription RESTORING WILDLIFE TOGETHER.

HMS Beagle

The HMS Beagle played a pivotal role in global exploration. Originally a naval vessel, it became a surveying ship in 1826 and completed three voyages. Its second voyage, carrying Captain Robert FitzRoy and naturalist Charles Darwin, produced the observations that shaped the theory of evolution. The commemorative honoring the Beagle features the ship on the reverse and the inscription THE VOYAGE OF THE BEAGLE on the edge.

British Grand Prix

Founded in 1926 at Brooklands, the UK’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit joined the World Championship calendar in 1950. The UK 50-pence coin marking 100 years of the Grand Prix features historic and modern racing cars on its reverse.

The King’s Trust

After completing his service in the Royal Navy, King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, used his naval severance pay to support community projects that laid the foundation for The Prince’s Trust. In 2024 the charity was renamed The King’s Trust, reflecting Charles III’s commitment to its mission. Since 1976, it has helped more than 1 million young people across the UK gain confidence, skills, and opportunities to find work or start businesses.