The Royal Mint has unveiled a new range of Dennis the Menace-themed 50p coins, marking 75 years since the iconic comic prankster first appeared in the Beano. This collaboration between the Royal Mint and Beano features Dennis and his dog Gnasher on collectable coins, with vibrant color printing highlighting the character's famous red and black jumper.
A Legendary Mischief-Maker Makes His Mark
Rebecca Morgan from the Royal Mint described the coin as capturing everything fans love about Dennis, adding that there's something wonderfully fitting about this legendary mischief-maker finally appearing on collectable currency. She humorously noted that Dennis himself would likely see it as his greatest prank yet.
Celebrating 75 Years of Childhood Icon
Dennis the Menace made his debut in issue 452 of the Beano on March 17, 1951, and has since become a cultural phenomenon, appearing on BBC, ITV, and in video games. From 1999 to 2010, Dennis and Gnasher served as mascots for Beanoland at Chessington World of Adventures.
Rob Glenny from Beano, which was launched by Dundee-based publisher DC Thomson in 1938, stated that the coin captures the unmistakable spark that has kept Dennis at the heart of childhood for generations.
Commemorative Coin Details and Availability
The commemorative 50p coin is available for purchase from the Royal Mint's website starting at £15. Beginning February 26, visitors to the Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant, South Wales, will have the opportunity to mint their own Dennis the Menace coin.
This release follows previous birthday celebrations for the character, including when Dennis and Gnasher gatecrashed Sky News headquarters for his 60th anniversary in a comic strip. The new coin features an engraving that reads "75 years of Dennis," commemorating his enduring legacy in British popular culture.
