UK Roger Bannister (running) 50p pendant

The Roger Bannister 50p coin, issued in 2004 by the Royal Mint, commemorates Sir Roger Bannister's groundbreaking achievement of running a mile in under four minutes on May 6, 1954. Bannister, a medical student at the time, completed the mile in 3 minutes and 59.4 seconds at the Iffley Road track in Oxford, marking a historic moment in athletics. His feat was celebrated as a triumph of human determination and physical endurance, inspiring generations of athletes worldwide. The coin's design, created by James Butler, features the lower half of a runner's legs over a stopwatch, symbolizing Bannister's record-breaking run. The stopwatch displays a time just under four minutes, emphasizing the significance of his achievement. The reverse side of the coin also includes the denomination "50 PENCE." The obverse side features the fourth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, with the inscription "ELIZABETH II · D · G · REG · F · D · 2004." This 50p coin is part of the heptagonal series introduced in 1969, known for its unique seven-sided shape, which is technically a Reuleaux polygon. The coin is made of cupro-nickel, weighs 8 grams, and has a diameter of 27.3mm. With a mintage of over 9 million, the Roger Bannister 50p is not considered rare but holds sentimental value for collectors and sports enthusiasts alike. The coin was released to mark the 50th anniversary of Bannister's achievement, highlighting his legacy not only as an athlete but also as a neurologist and academic. After his athletic career, Bannister contributed significantly to medicine, focusing on neurological disorders. His dual legacy as a sports icon and a medical professional underscores the breadth of his impact on society. The Roger Bannister 50p coin is a testament to the enduring power of human ambition and perseverance. It serves as a reminder of the barriers broken by Bannister and the inspiration he continues to provide. Whether cherished by coin collectors or admired by sports fans, this commemorative coin encapsulates a moment of history that transcends the realm of athletics.