The 2019 Brexit coin… Are EU for or against it?

Have you heard the latest press rumours about the possibility of a commemorative Brexit coin being struck to mark the UK’s departure from the European Union?

In the news this week, we’ve heard that Conservative MPs are demanding the Treasury produce a ‘Brexit coin’ for 2019, but opinions seem to be split as to whether or not the coin should in fact be made.

Whilst the Treasury is believed to be enthusiastic about the plans, the Department for Business has reportedly rejected proposals for the Royal Mail to issue commemorative Brexit stamps.

Traditionally, stamps and coins have played an important role in celebrating Britain’s historical milestones.

In 1973 both a commemorative stamp and 50p coin were issued to mark the UK’s entry into the EEC, which was then incorporated into the EU in 1993.

 

1973 Britain’s Entry into European Community Stamps. Credit: The Guardian

 

1973 50p issued for the UK’s accession to the European Economic Community

 

As Britain reaches such a significant moment in the country’s history, should stamps and coins be issued to celebrate this, or is the issue just too controversial a topic for our nation to memorialise?

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson commented, “Leaving the European Union will be a monumental moment in British history, so let’s deliver a commemorative stamp that shows the world we’ve got Brexit licked.”

Despite this, the Royal Mail Director of Public Affairs and Policy has rejected the proposal for a commemorative ‘Brexit stamp’ on the grounds that the Royal Mail must remain a figure of political neutrality.

 

Nonetheless, Conservative MPs seem to remain ever hopeful that the plans for a commemorative Brexit coin will be granted.

The Royal Mint Advisory Committee will be deliberating on whether or not to grant approval for this proposal and if it is approved, the design will then be proposed to Chancellor Philip Hammond before being sent to the Queen for Royal approval.

In coming months, we may see a public petition and even a design competition for the coin, but will you be signing your name to support the production of this coin?

 

Results from our Facebook poll showed that 68% of you voted in favour of a commemorative Brexit coin. We shall see what the future holds for this coin as The Royal Mint Advisory Committee deliberates the proposal…