Some of the most important breakthroughs in science have come from those working quietly behind the scenes — and few embody this truth more than Rosalind Franklin A pioneering chemist and crystallographer, Franklin’s work in X-ray diffraction was instrumental in uncovering the double helix structure of DNA. Yet for decades, her contribution was overshadowed by the fame of others. Thankfully, her legacy has finally been recognised — not just in history books, but immortalised in silver, by the Royal Mint.
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In 2020, as part of its Innovation in Science 50p series, the Royal Mint issued a stunning tribute to Rosalind Franklin. The coin honours her scientific brilliance and her lasting impact on molecular biology, immortalising her name alongside other giants of discovery.
Rosalind Franklin’s most famous photograph, Photo 51, was the key piece of evidence that led to the identification of DNA’s helical structure. Taken through meticulous X-ray crystallography, the image showed a striking X-shape — a pattern that directly hinted at DNA’s twisted ladder design. It’s this very image that inspires the reverse of the 50p coin, where a stylised double helix dominates the design, accompanied by the text “Rosalind Franklin DNA” and the year of issue, 2020.
The design, created by David Knapton, not only pays tribute to the scientific data Franklin captured but also reasserts her rightful place in the DNA discovery story. It’s a coin that speaks volumes, both as an artistic piece and a social statement.
The silver proof version of this coin offers collectors a premium keepsake, with the following specifications:
- Denomination: 50p
- Weight: 8.00 grams
- Diameter: 27.30 mm
- Metal: .925 sterling silver
- Finish: Proof
- Limited Mintage: Only 3,500 of these boxed silver proofs were released, adding to their collectability and scarcity.
Each coin comes in an elegant presentation case with an informative booklet that dives into Franklin’s life, her contributions to science, and the wider significance of the Innovation in Science series. It’s not just a coin — it’s a testament to perseverance, brilliance, and the long-overdue recognition of a trailblazer in molecular biology.
For anyone who appreciates science(like me), history, or simply beautiful design in precious metals, the Rosalind Franklin silver proof 50p is more than a fitting tribute to a woman whose work changed the world — even if the world took its time to realise it.
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