UK issues new ‘black hole’ coin in honour of Stephen Hawking

The UK’s Royal Mint has recently issued a new commemorative 50 pence coin inspired by the late legendary British physicist Stephen Hawking’s seminal work on black holes. The coin was designed by British engraver and printmaker Edwina Ellis. The purpose of the commemorative coin is to celebrate the life and “ground-breaking” achievements of Hawking, who passed away in 2018. Hence, Hawking joined an elite group of scientists having appeared on coins—including Sir Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.