News / Aardman
50p coin commemorates Aardman’s 50th anniversary
The 50th anniversary of Aardman has been marked with a commemorative 50p coin featuring a few of the Bristol animation studio’s most recognisable characters.
Appearing on the coin are Wallace, Gromit, Morph, Feathers McGraw and Shaun the Sheep.
A selection of the coins will feature colour while in a first for the Royal Mint, the gold version of the Aardman 50p will be produced from recycled gold from old jewellery and coins.
Aardman co-founder Peter Lord with Morph and the new coin – photo: Aardman / Royal Mint
Aardman co-founder and creative director, Peter Lord, said: “I’m very proud that the story of Aardman and the characters we’ve created over the last 50 years are being celebrated by the work of the Royal Mint.
“It was such a pleasure to visit and see for myself, close-up, the amazing care and artistry that goes into making these beautiful coins.
“In fact, the whole place reminded me of the Aardman studio – both are full of super-talented artists and craftspeople creating timeless work.
“We love to bring pleasure and fun to our audiences, and these fabulous coins surely represent that joyous spirit.”
Wallace and Gromit are among the characters who feature on the coin – photo: Aardman / Royal Mint
Royal Mint director, Rebecca Morgan, added: “Aardman characters have been part of the fabric of British life for 50 years and the nostalgia they carry is truly extraordinary.
“Whether you grew up watching Wallace and Gromit on Christmas Day, fell in love with Morph as a child or introduced Shaun the Sheep to a new generation, these characters hold a very special place in people’s hearts.
“To honour that legacy on a collectable 50p coin for the very first time feels genuinely momentous and we think it’s, well, quite simply crackers not to own one.”
Morph is in a celebratory mood – photo: Royall Mint / Aardman
Main photo: Aardman / Royal Mint
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