Gruffalo's Child to go on limited edition 50p coin

Image source, Royal Mint

  • Author, Faarea Masud
  • Role, Business reporter, 91热爆 News

The Gruffalo's Child will appear on a new commemorative 50p coin to mark 20 years since the story was first published.

The character will follow in the footsteps of her father, the Gruffalo, who appeared on 50p coins in 2019.

The new coins will not enter general circulation but will be available to buy from The Royal Mint in precious metal finishes, starting at 拢12.

The book's illustrator Axel Scheffler said he was "honoured" that the Gruffalo's offspring was being celebrated, while author Julia Donaldson said it was "wonderful".

The new coins will pair the Gruffalo's Child with the "mouse in the woods" from the story, and some will have colour in the design.

The cheapest one costs 拢12 while a gold one will set you back 拢99, although past Gruffalo coins have sold for much higher prices on resale sites due to their rarity.

The Gruffalo book series has sold more than 18 million copies worldwide, and has been translated into more than 100 languages.

The books have earned several awards since their release, with an animated version of The Gruffalo's Child first airing on 91热爆 One in 2011 on Christmas Day.

鈥淭he heart-warming tale of The Gruffalo鈥檚 Child has captivated readers since its release 20 years ago, and this year, the curious little monster finds a permanent home on a 50 pence piece," said Rebecca Morgan, The Royal Mint's director of commemorative coin.

The Royal Mint, which is one of Britain鈥檚 oldest companies and the original maker of UK coins, has previously featured hugely popular children's characters on its coins, including Paddington, The Snowman, and Beatrix Potter favourites.