Two Barbary macaques sit by a decorated tree surrounded by presents — this is Christmas on Gibraltar’s 50 pence of 2021. «CHRISTMAS» appears at the upper left, with the value on the right.

The 2021 Christmas collection is devoted entirely to the Rock’s apes: on the companion £2 a macaque in a Santa hat holds a Christmas cracker while perched on top of the Rock. The Government of Gibraltar issued the notice for both denominations on 2 December 2021, in cupro-nickel, bi-metal, silver and gold.

The obverse shows Elizabeth II in the George IV State Diadem with the legend «ELIZABETH II D G REGINA GIBRALTAR» and the date. The coin was struck by the Tower Mint in London; a coloured version exists alongside the standard one.

The coin fits a Gibraltar Christmas date run and a wildlife-on-coins collection, and pairs naturally with the macaque £2 of the same year from the same festive collection. Uncirculated (UNC) condition: the coin has never been in circulation, shows no wear and keeps its original mint lustre.

Coins from the VPcoins catalogue are collected by seasoned numismatists and newcomers alike.