The Royal Mint unveils a special commemorative 50p coin featuring Dennis the Menace to celebrate 75 years since the character’s debut in the Beano comic. This collectible, created in partnership with Britain’s longest-running weekly comic launched in 1938, highlights the iconic troublemaker and his loyal dog, Gnasher.
Coin Design and Availability
The coin depicts Dennis in his signature red-and-black striped jumper standing beside Gnasher. Select versions include vibrant color printing for added appeal. It goes on sale Thursday, with prices starting at £15, making it accessible for collectors and fans alike.
Enduring Legacy of Dennis
Dennis first appeared in the Beano in March 1951, quickly becoming one of its most beloved figures. His debut story, rendered in black and white, showed him getting into scrapes after ignoring a ‘keep off the grass’ sign. Full-color illustrations arrived in 1954, and Gnasher joined the adventures in 1968 after Dennis discovered the stray pup on the streets of Beanotown.
The character draws inspiration from a musical hall song chorus: ‘I’m Dennis the Menace from Venice,’ which prompted the Beano editor to create a matching persona.
Celebratory Remarks
Rebecca Morgan of the Royal Mint described the coin as a perfect tribute. “This coin captures everything we love about him, that unmistakable mischievous grin, his furry pal Gnasher by his side and that irresistible spirit of rebellion that has made him a favourite across generations,” she stated. “We’re incredibly proud to bring Dennis to life in this way, and we know this coin will be treasured by Beano fans young and old.”
Rob Glenny from Beano praised the design for encapsulating Dennis’s essence. He called it a “brilliant way to mark 75 years of laughs, pranks and unleashed imagination,” emphasizing the character’s timeless mischief.
