First issued
9 June 1982
Diameter
21.4mm
Weight
5g
Composition
Cupro-nickel (84% copper, 16% nickel)
Edge
Plain
1982
The 20p coin was introduced into circulation in June, with a view to reducing the overall weight of the coinage by decreasing the number of 10p coins in use. To make the new coin easily distinguishable, it was given the shape of an equilateral curve heptagon – the same as a 50p. With its constant rolling diameter, this shape is particularly suitable for vending machines.
2008
As part of a general re-design of the coinage, a new reverse was introduced for the 20p coin. A couple of hundred thousand pieces bearing the new reverse design were accidentally struck without a date.
Obverse
1982-1984
1985-1997
1998 to date
Designed by Arnold Machin
Designed by Raphael Maklouf
Designed by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS
Reverse
1982-
2008
The Royal Badge of the Rose of England
represented as a double rose barbed and seeded, slipped and leaved and ensigned by a Royal Crown
Designed by William Gardner
2008
to date
A section of the Royal Arms showing elements of the second and fourth quarterings
Designed by Matthew Dent