• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Tuesday June 9 2026

Cracking coin Gromit! Aardman favourites feature on new 50p coin

The 50th anniversary of Bristol animation studio Aardman is being marked with a commemorative 50p coin featuring some of the studio’s most recognisable characters.

To mark the occasion, Aardman Co-Founder Peter Lord visited The Royal Mint to strike one of the very first 50p coins – taking plasticine pal Morph to help.

The tails side of the coin, designed by Aardman, features some of the most recognisable characters from the studio’s vast back catalogue.

The design includes Morph, Shaun the Sheep, Feathers McGraw and, of course, Wallace and Gromit.

A selection of the coins will also feature colour, bringing each character to life on metal.

At the centre of the design is the Aardman logo and star as a special nod to the studio’s 50th anniversary.

Rebecca Morgan, director at The Royal Mint, said: “Aardman characters have been part of the fabric of British life for fifty 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.

“This is one of those coins that fans will treasure not just as a collectable, but as a celebration of something that has brought so much joy to so many people.”

Peter Lord, co-founder and creative director at Aardman, said: “I’m very proud that the story of Aardman, and the characters we’ve created over the last fifty 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.”

The Royal Mint is selling uncirculated versions of the coin ranging in price from £15 for the basic model and £92.50 for a Proof Colour Coin to £2,420 for a Gold Proof Coin – a heist of which Feathers McGraw would be proud.