Few names in modern science command as much respect and admiration as Professor Stephen Hawking, ignoring the whole "Epstien Island" allegations. A theoretical physicist, cosmologist, author, and all-round scientific icon, Hawking defied the limitations of his body to explore the boundless frontiers of space, time, and black holes. His bestselling book A Brief History of Time captivated millions, including myself, complex scientific theories accessible to everyday readers. And his contributions to our understanding of singularities, Hawking radiation, and the fundamental laws that govern the cosmos will echo through the halls of science for generations.
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In 2019, The Royal Mint honoured his remarkable mind with a coin as striking as the man himself – the first in its now-beloved Innovation in Science series. The Stephen Hawking 50p silver proof coin is not just a tribute, but a piece of history, blending mathematics, artistry, and meaning into a single beautiful design.
The reverse of the coin, designed by Edwina Ellis, cleverly incorporates Hawking’s ground-breaking work on black holes. A swirling, funnel-like shape representing a black hole dominates the coin’s face, drawing the eye inward, just as Hawking’s theories pulled scientific focus to the centre of the unknown. Above the vortex sits Hawking’s name, and beneath it, the formula associated with Hawking radiation — a nod to one of his most important contributions to theoretical physics. It's rare for a coin design to communicate such deep scientific meaning while remaining visually appealing, but this one succeeds with elegance.
Struck in 925 sterling silver and finished to the Royal Mint’s highest proof standard, the silver proof version of this coin comes with the following specifications:
- Denomination: 50p
- Weight: 8.00 grams
- Diameter: 27.30 mm
- Metal: .925 sterling silver
- Finish: Proof
- Limited mintage: Only 5,500 individually boxed coins were released, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and science lovers alike.
Each coin comes presented in a sleek black display box with a detailed information booklet, exploring Hawking’s scientific legacy and explaining the coin’s unique design elements.
For collectors, science enthusiasts, or anyone inspired by Hawking’s story of brilliance and perseverance, this coin represents more than just a piece of silver. It’s a lasting tribute to a man who showed us that curiosity, imagination, and determination can stretch even beyond the stars.
An award should go to anyone who can figure where all that cash goes to when it disappears into a black hole called government.
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