Wallace, Gromit, Shaun, Morph, And Feathers McGraw Land Commemorative 50p Royal Mint Coin

Aardman Animations has scored the latest in a series of honors recognizing the iconic studio’s 50th anniversary. The Royal Mint has unveiled a commemorative 50p coin to celebrate the Bristol-based studio’s half-century of influence in animation.

The collectible coin brings together some of the company’s most iconic figures, including Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Morph, and Feathers McGraw, in a design developed in collaboration with Aardman.

Founded in 1976 by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the studio has grown from a small independent operation into one of the world’s most acclaimed animation houses, earning multiple Academy Awards and creating franchises that have reached audiences across generations.

To mark the coin’s launch, Aardman co-founder Peter Lord visited The Royal Mint and struck one of the first examples of the new currency. The coin is available in several editions, including standard brilliant uncirculated versions, color variants, silver proofs, and a limited gold proof edition. Prices begin at £15.

The Royal Mint’s Rebecca Morgan said of the recognition:

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.

Speaking for the studio, Lord added:

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.