To most people, a 50p coin is just loose change. But in the world of UK coin collecting, certain fifty pence pieces are worth far more than their face value—especially those that commemorate significant historical events. Among the most respected in recent memory is the “50p with VC”, or 50p Victoria Cross coin. Introduced to honour the UK’s highest military honour, this coin continues to attract collectors and investors alike, even nearly two decades after its release.
As of 2025, how much is the 50p with VC worth? Could one hiding in your coin jar be worth more than you think? This article breaks down everything you need to know about its current value, rarity, auction performance, and how to determine if you’re holding a potential numismatic gem.
What Is the 50p with VC?
The term “50p with VC” refers to two commemorative 50p coins issued in 2006 by The Royal Mint to mark the 150th anniversary of the Victoria Cross, Britain’s most prestigious military award for valour. The coins are commonly referred to as:
- Victoria Cross – Heroic Acts (VC Heroic Acts)
- Victoria Cross – The Medal (VC Medal)
While technically separate coins, both share the same theme and were issued in the same year, which is why collectors often refer to them together as the “VC 50p coins” or simply the “50p with VC”.
Who Designed the VC 50p Coins?
Each coin features a different design reflecting the history and honour of the Victoria Cross:
- The VC Heroic Acts 50p shows a soldier carrying a wounded comrade under fire, designed by Clair Aldridge.
- The VC Medal 50p shows the front and back of the Victoria Cross medal itself, designed by Claire Aldridge and Clive Duncan.
Both coins were part of a general circulation release, making them legally spendable across the UK. But they were also minted in brilliant uncirculated (BU) and proof editions for collectors, which fetch much higher prices today.
How Many Were Minted?
The rarity of a coin plays a massive role in its market value. According to the official figures from The Royal Mint:
- VC Medal 50p (2006): 12,087,000 minted
- VC Heroic Acts 50p (2006): 10,000,500 minted
While these mintage numbers aren’t the lowest among UK 50p coins, their combined theme, historic significance, and collectibility have helped them maintain strong interest in the market—especially in pristine condition.
How Much Is the 50p with VC Worth in 2025?
As of July 2025, the value of the 50p with VC depends on several key factors including condition, edition type, and demand.
Circulated Coins (Used in General Change)
- Typical Market Value (Per Coin): £1.50 – £3
- High Grade Circulated: Up to £5 if nearly unmarked
These prices reflect their availability in everyday circulation. Coins in good condition are still attractive to casual collectors, especially those trying to complete the 50p commemorative set.
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) Versions
- Individual BU Coin: £5 – £8 each
- BU Set (Both Coins in Folder): £10 – £15
Collectors are especially keen on Royal Mint-issued packs that include both designs with official documentation. These often feature attractive packaging and historical context, increasing their desirability.
Proof Editions
- Silver Proof (each coin): £30 – £45
- Gold Proof: Rare and rarely resold, but past auctions have listed them between £500 – £800 per coin depending on condition and availability
Proof versions are minted to the highest quality with mirrored finishes, and they often sell for significantly more at coin fairs and auctions.
Could the VC 50p Fetch More at Auction?
While general resale platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace offer a fair idea of day-to-day value, it’s specialist coin auctions that can reveal the true high-end market potential.
In 2025, auctions hosted by leading numismatic firms in the UK and online platforms such as The London Coin Company and Warwick & Warwick have seen silver proof sets of the VC 50p coins sell for £80–£120, particularly when boxed with certificates of authenticity.
The gold proof versions, which were made in extremely limited quantities, are rarely available publicly. When they do appear, they attract serious interest from collectors willing to bid well above issue price. For instance, a gold VC 50p sold at a London-based coin auction in late 2024 for £765, more than double its original sale price in 2006.
What Increases the Value of the VC 50p?
Collectors look for specific traits when determining what a 50p with VC might fetch:
Condition: Uncirculated coins or coins graded by third-party services like NGC or PCGS receive premium pricing.
Packaging: Coins sold in original Royal Mint presentation cases, folders, or limited edition sleeves are significantly more valuable than loose ones.
Edition Type: Gold and silver proof versions will always outperform regular circulation coins in value and demand.
Collector Demand: As public interest in military history and British coinage continues to grow in 2025, the VC 50p benefits from dual appeal—as both a historical token and a commemorative keepsake.
Is the VC 50p Still Legal Tender?
Yes, the Victoria Cross 50p coins remain legal tender in the UK. That means they can be used in transactions, though most people wouldn’t dream of spending them for face value anymore. Banks and Post Offices may accept them at face value, but their collector value is far higher.
So, if you’ve got one in your coin jar, it’s best to think twice before passing it over for a snack at the corner shop.
Where Can You Sell the VC 50p?
If you’re ready to part with your VC 50p, these are the best channels in 2025:
Online Marketplaces:
eBay UK remains the top destination, especially when auction-style listings are used to drive up price. Be sure to check completed listings for realistic pricing.
Specialist Coin Dealers:
Shops or dealers that specialise in UK coinage will often offer you a fair valuation, especially for proof editions.
Coin Shows & Auctions:
Live and online auctions hosted by Biddable, Spink, and other trusted numismatic firms can yield higher prices, particularly for high-grade or rare editions.
Collector Forums:
Dedicated communities on Reddit (r/coinsUK), Coin Talk, and Facebook can also be helpful for gauging value and finding buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many VC 50p coins are there?
Two versions were released in 2006—the Victoria Cross Medal and Heroic Acts coins. Combined, over 22 million were minted for circulation.
Are VC 50p coins rare?
Not particularly rare in circulation, but uncirculated and proof versions—especially in gold or silver—are much harder to come by and significantly more valuable.
Can I still find VC 50p coins in my change?
Yes, though it’s becoming less common in 2025. Most of the coins in circulation are well-worn, which reduces their value.
What’s the best version to invest in?
Silver proof and gold proof versions tend to hold value best and appreciate over time, especially if boxed and in mint condition.
How do I know if my VC 50p is valuable?
Check for condition, year, and whether it came in special packaging. Comparing with recent auction prices or consulting a professional can help.
Final Thoughts
The 50p with VC is a classic example of how a piece of commemorative currency can carry meaning far beyond its monetary face value. It honours bravery, celebrates history, and gives everyday collectors a chance to own something truly special. While you won’t always strike gold in your change, even circulated versions have value—and the right proof edition could net you hundreds in a collector’s market that’s only getting stronger in 2025.
Whether you’re holding on to it for its symbolism or looking to turn a small coin into a tidy return, the Victoria Cross 50p is a remarkable reminder that sometimes, history really is in your hands.
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