Collectable coins, which feature animated characters brought to life by a Preston-born filmmaker, are being released to mark half a century of animation magic.
The Royal Mint has launched a new set of 50p coins celebrating 50 years of Aardman Animations, the studio behind some of Britain’s best-loved characters, including Shaun the Sheep and Wallace and Gromit.
The characters were brought to life by Preston-born filmmaker and animator Nick Park.
Rebecca Morgan, director at The Royal Mint, said: "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."
The ‘tails’ side of the coin have been designed by Aardman and features a collection of its most iconic characters, including Morph, Shaun the Sheep, Wallace and Gromit, and Feathers McGraw the villainous penguin that has featured in some Wallace and Gromit productions.
Some versions of the coin will also feature the design in full colour.
Aardman is known for its distinctive stop-motion animation, a technique that has delighted audiences since the 1970s and earned the studio a devoted following across the generations.
Peter Lord, co-founder of Aardman, visited The Royal Mint to strike one of the first coins.
Mr 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."
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The coins will be available to purchase from The Royal Mint’s website from 9am on Tuesday, June 9.
They are available in a range of finishes, including gold, silver, and brilliant uncirculated.
Prices start at £15 for a brilliant uncirculated 50p coin and £25 for a colour version.
A silver coin is available at £92.50 and a gold coin can be purchased for £2,420.
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