The Royal Mint has unveiled its latest numismatic marvel—a three-coin collection featuring some of the most awe-inspiring creatures of the Ice Age. As part of the Tales of the Earth series, in collaboration with the Natural History Museum, this stunning set brings to life the legendary steppe mammoth, woolly rhinoceros, and giant deer, each immortalized on their own 50p coin. For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, this is an exciting opportunity to connect with prehistoric wonders while adding unique pieces to their collection.
The first coin in the series, released on Monday, celebrates the steppe mammoth (Mammuthus trogontherii), one of the largest mammals to roam the Earth. With an impressive shoulder height of four meters and a weight of up to ten tonnes, this massive herbivore was a true giant of its time. Thanks to the remarkable paleo-artist Robert Nicholls and the expert guidance of professor Adrian Lister from the Natural History Museum, this ancient creature has been beautifully brought back to life in the detailed design of the 50p coin.
Not stopping with the mammoth, the Royal Mint will soon release coins featuring the woolly rhinoceros and giant deer, completing this Ice Age Giants trilogy. These megafauna thrived in the harsh conditions of the Ice Age, navigating the grassy plains and glaciers of prehistoric Europe. Now, their legacy continues through this extraordinary collection, offering a tangible glimpse into the Earth's ancient past.
And now, for a bit of fun—while we're on the topic of Ice Age giants and global climate, I can't help but wonder: if humans are responsible for modern global warming and governments insist on taxing us to "cool the planet," can someone explain where all the ice from the last Ice Age went? Did we manage to melt that too, long before the industrial revolution? It seems like Earth’s climate has always been shifting, with or without our help!
The official steppe mammoth 50p coin is available to purchase now, with prices starting from £12. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just love the idea of owning a piece of prehistoric history, this is one collection not to miss. Be sure to grab yours before these coins, like the giants they depict, become a thing of the past!