John Logie Baird 50p

New 50p celebrates life of John Logie Baird

The commemorative coin was first unveiled in the 2021 Annual Set and features a design by artists Osborne Ross.

The coin design features a 'graphic representation of broadcast transmission, with circular shapes emanating a silhouette of the Crystal Palace mast' – the site of John Logie Baird’s former television station and transmitter.
 
The coin also reflects the following moments of John Logie Baird's life:

• Birth in Helensburgh Scotland in 1888
• Studying electrical engineering at Glasgow’s Royal Technical College in 1926
• The first demonstration of analogue television in 1926
• The first transatlantic transmission in 1928
• The end of a full and successful life in 1946

The design team used a special ‘scooping’ technique between the lines on the model to create a quality 3D finish.

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Coin editions

The 50p coin is available in limited-edition Gold Proof, Silver Proof, Silver Proof Piedfort, as well as a Brilliant Uncirculated edition. Collectors should note this 50p coin will not be entered into general circulation.
 
Speaking on behalf of the Baird family, Iain Baird said:

"The Baird family feels extremely honoured that The Royal Mint has chosen to recognise my grandfather's contributions in this way.  He was involved in both the technology and the progress of television broadcasting and the coin design illustrates his dual role as a pioneer in the scientific world as well as in a brand-new medium of communication."

Innovation in Science Series 

The Life and Works of John Logie Baird follows Stephen Hawking and Rosalind Franklin, as part of the Innovation in Science Series. Find out more about the John Logie Baird coin, the Science in Innovation Series and the 2021 Annual Set at www.royalmint.com.