Dennis the Menace Marks 75 Years in The Beano with New 50p Coin
The beloved character Dennis the Menace from the iconic comic strip The Beano celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Known for his cheeky antics and mischievous spirit, Dennis first made his appearance on March 17, 1951. In recognition of this milestone, a new 50p coin featuring Dennis and his dog Gnasher has been launched.
Launch of the Dennis the Menace 50p Coin
The commemorative 50p coin will be available to collectors beginning on February 19, 2026. Created in collaboration with The Royal Mint, the coin features Dennis in his signature red and black striped top, accompanied by Gnasher. This unique coin showcases vibrant colors that bring the characters to life, appealing to fans across all generations.
A Legacy of Mischief
Since his introduction, Dennis has been a staple in British pop culture. The Beano, which began publication by Dundee-based DC Thomson on July 30, 1938, has entertained children for over 87 years. Notable characters alongside Dennis include Minnie the Minx and The Bash Street Kids.
- First Appearance: March 17, 1951
- Comic Origin: The Beano, founded on July 30, 1938
- Notable Characters: Minnie the Minx, The Bash Street Kids, Roger the Dodger
Celebrating 75 Years with The Royal Mint
The 50p coin commemorates Dennis’s mischievous legacy. Rebecca Morgan of The Royal Mint emphasized that the coin captures Dennis’s rebellious spirit. She stated, “This coin captures everything we love about him, that unmistakable mischievous grin.”
Furthermore, Rob Glenny from Beano Studios expressed excitement about Dennis’s inclusion on currency, noting that “to see that mischief officially minted is a brilliant way to mark 75 years of laughs, pranks, and unleashed imagination.”
Availability and Pricing
The Dennis the Menace 50p coin will be sold on The Royal Mint’s website starting at £15 for an uncirculated version. Color versions will retail at £25. From February 26, people will have the opportunity to strike their own 50p coin at the Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant, South Wales.
This collectible coin not only signifies a milestone for The Beano but also ensures that the legacy of Dennis the Menace continues to thrive for future generations. Collectibles like this coin represent a fusion of nostalgia and art, allowing fans to hold a piece of their childhood in their hands.
