A mischievous milestone is being celebrated in the world of British comics and collectibles. The Royal Mint has partnered with Beano to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Dennis the Menace with a new range of 50p coins featuring the iconic prankster and his canine companion, Gnasher. The coins, officially launched on , mark a rare intersection of numismatics and beloved British pop culture.
The collaboration brings Dennis and Gnasher to life on collectable 50p coins, with vibrant colour printing available to make the character’s signature red and black jumper “pop,” according to Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at The Royal Mint. The coins also feature an engraving marking “75 years of Dennis.” This isn’t the first time Dennis has ventured into the wider media landscape; the character has appeared on the BBC, ITV, and in video games since his debut in Beano issue 452 on .
The launch is the latest in a series of celebrations for the long-running comic character. Notably, Dennis and Gnasher previously “gatecrashed” the headquarters of Sky News in a comic strip to mark his 60th birthday, demonstrating the character’s enduring appeal and willingness to disrupt even the most serious of environments. This playful spirit, according to Morgan, is perfectly captured by the new coin. “There’s something wonderfully fitting about this legendary mischief-maker finally making his mark on a collectible 50p and I’m sure Dennis himself would see it as his greatest prank yet,” she stated.
The Beano, published by Dundee-based DC Thomson since , has been a cornerstone of British childhood for over eight decades, nurturing generations of readers with its blend of slapstick humour and relatable characters. Rob Glenny, from Beano, echoed Morgan’s sentiment, stating that the coin “captures the unmistakable spark that has kept Dennis at the heart of childhood for generations.” The enduring popularity of the comic, alongside characters like Minnie the Minx, The Bash Street Kids, and Roger the Dodger, speaks to its ability to adapt and remain relevant across changing cultural landscapes.
The commemorative coin is available for purchase directly from The Royal Mint’s website, with prices starting at £15 for a brilliant uncirculated version. Colour versions are available for £25. Beyond online sales, fans will have the opportunity to create their own Dennis the Menace coins in person. Starting on , visitors to the Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant, South Wales, will be able to mint their own personalized coins, offering a unique and interactive experience for collectors and fans alike.
While the Royal Mint hasn’t explicitly stated the mintage numbers for these coins, similar commemorative 50p releases have often seen significant value increases on the secondary market. Reports suggest that some commemorative 50p coins can be worth upwards of 30 times their face value, making them attractive to both collectors and investors. The combination of Dennis the Menace’s enduring popularity and the collectibility of Royal Mint coins suggests that this release could follow a similar trajectory.
The launch of the Dennis the Menace coin is more than just a numismatic event; it’s a celebration of a cultural icon. It highlights the enduring power of British comics and their ability to connect with audiences across generations. The partnership between The Royal Mint and Beano demonstrates a savvy understanding of brand synergy and the potential to tap into a loyal and enthusiastic fanbase. As Dennis himself might say, it’s a prank worth collecting.
