FAQs
Looking for more information about the Royal Mint Museum Short Story Competition? Below you can find a list of our frequently asked questions. If you have a question you would like us to answer that isn’t here, email storycompetition@royalmintmuseum.org.uk or refer to our Terms and Conditions for more detailed information.
How do I enter?
Simply submit your entries online via our online form.
Can I send a physical copy of my story instead?
Yes, we accept physical entries. You can post your entry to:
Short Story Competition
The Royal Mint Museum
Llantrisant
Pontyclun
CF72 8YT.
If you are submitting your entries by post you must include a signed copy of our Terms and Conditions with your entry. This can be done for each individual child or on behalf of a whole class. At the top of each story please be sure to note the entrants name, age and school. Details of the winning entrants will be shared publicly with the press and on our website.
Do I have to pay to enter?
No, entry is completely free.
Who can enter?
Anyone aged 7 to 11 at the time of entry, who lives in, and is schooled or homeschooled, the United Kingdom.
Can I enter independently, or do I have to enter through my school?
If you go to school in the United Kingdom and are aged seven to eleven you can enter individually, or through your school!
Can I submit more than one story?
No, you can only enter one story per person.
What is the prize?
1st prize is a 2026 half-sovereign gold proof coin, £5,000 worth of vouchers for equipment and books for their school or local library and a framed copy of their winning entry illustrated by a professional artist.
2nd prize is a 2026 silver sovereign, £2,000 worth of vouchers for equipment and books for their school or local library.
3rd prize is a 2026 silver sovereign, £1,000 worth of vouchers for equipment and books for their school or local library.
5x runners up prize is a brilliant uncirculated colour coin.
10x highly commended prize is a brilliant uncirculated coin.
Will my details be stored or used?
We will only use your details to contact you if you are selected for the shortlist and no data will be collected for any purpose other than that relating to the competition. Details of the winning entrants, such as name, age, school and photograph will be shared publicly with the press and on our website along with the winning stories. See our terms and conditions for more information.
Where can I find more information about the theme?
We have a dedicated inspiration section on our website and a downloadable worksheet to help with writing, but these are all optional resources and you can use ideas from any source.
Do I have to use one of the suggested topics?
No, they are just ideas. You can write your story about anything at all connected with the topic of 'Gold'.
Can I submit my entry in a language other than English?
You certainly can, however we will get it translated into English for the purposes of judging.
When does the competition close?
The competition is open from 16th February until 17th April 2026.
How will the winner be decided?
A shortlist of 18 entries will be selected by the Royal Mint Museum team. These entries will be read and evaluated by our guest judge who will select the overall winners and the runners up.
How will I be notified if I win?
If you are shortlisted to receive a prize, we will contact you via your school unless you specify that you would like us to contact you differently.
What will happen if I win?
The winning story will be published on our website, and your entry will become part of the Royal Mint Museum collection, along with the other shortlisted entries. A presentation, either in person or virtually, will be arranged through your school or guardians. There may be interest from the media in the story, but we would discuss that with you and your guardians at the time.
