As we turn the page to 2026, we look ahead to the exciting upcoming anniversaries of this year! These important anniversaries span royalty, pop culture, and pivotal moments in history, so let’s take a look at what is coming up in the next 12 months.
100th Anniversary - Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022)
Born in London in 1926, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor became Queen Elizabeth II in 1952. Her seventy-year reign became the longest of any monarch in British history. In that time, she visited more countries than any monarch had ever done, and she became, arguably, the greatest Ambassador for Britain that this country has ever produced. Her legacy continues to be celebrated around the world, and even more so this year, as we mark 100 years since her birth.
125th Anniversary – The End of the Victorian Era (1901)
Queen Victoria reigned from 1837 to 1901, overseeing Britain’s transformation into the largest empire the world has ever seen. Her coronation in 1838 was a spectacular event, reflecting the great hope and optimism of the Victorian Age. Her Golden Jubilee in 1887 celebrated her long reign, and her death marked the end of an era. Her great legacy is reflected in coinage, art, and the enduring values that shaped modern Britain.
90th Anniversary – The Year of Three Kings (1936)
In 1936, in what must be one of the most dramatic years in the history of the House of Windsor, Britain experienced three monarchs in just twelve months. After the death of King George V in January, his eldest son became King Edward VIII. But, before the year was out, he sparked a constitutional crisis after being denied permission to marry a divorced woman.
In December, Edward chose love over duty and abdicated, leaving his younger brother, Albert, to become the monarch. He chose to reign as King George VI and, within a few years, his quiet courage and fortitude transformed the reputation of the royal family.
15th Anniversary – The Wedding of the Prince and Princess of Wales (2011)
The marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011 was a modern royal event watched by millions of people around the world. Fifteen years later, the future King and Queen have three children and enjoy widespread public affection for their hardworking nature, relaxed charm, and dedication to public service.
Their story is a royal romance that has weathered life’s storms but grown stronger, as they continue to demonstrate that the monarchy has a bright future in their capable hands.
960th Anniversary - The Battle of Hastings (1066)
The Battle of Hastings in 1066 marked a turning point in British history. William the Conqueror’s victory over the last crowned Anglo-Saxon king of England, Harold II, established Norman rule and reshaped our national identity. With the famous Bayeux Tapestry, which details this turbulent year, arriving on temporary loan to the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027, there is no doubt that many will be paying a visit in this momentous anniversary year.
110th Anniversary - The Battle of the Somme (1916)
The Battle of the Somme in 1916 remains one of the most significant and tragic moments in British military history. Over a million men were wounded or killed in one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War. Each year we remember the fallen - those who left their families and homes in the fight for freedom. This year, it seems even more poignant as we reflect on the sacrifices made over a century ago during the First World War.
500th Anniversary – Saint George and the Dragon on an English Coin (1526)
In 1526, King Henry VIII issued a gold coin that became known as the George Noble. It marked the first time that Saint George had been depicted on an English coin. His legendary battle with the fearsome dragon, representing the triumph of good over evil, was clearly a popular choice for a coin design. Even though the George Noble was only struck for four years, the patron saint of England and his reptilian adversary were destined to make a spectacular return to British gold coinage nearly three hundred years later.
250th Anniversary - The United States of America (1776)
The 250th anniversary - known as the Semiquincentennial - marks a quarter of a millennium since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This major milestone celebration has already begun with special coin issues and historic coin and banknote sets -which are surely destined to become treasured family heirlooms.
100th Anniversary - Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962)
Norma Jeane Mortenson, later known as Marilyn Monroe, was born in Los Angeles in 1926. Despite a challenging childhood, she rose to become one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars. Her roles in classic movies like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Some Like it Hot and The Seven Year Itch immortalised her as a pop culture symbol of beauty, glamour and charisma. Monroe’s centenary celebrates a legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
70th Anniversary - Elvis Presley’s Rise to Fame (1956)
By 1956, Elvis Presley had become a legend, with hits like “Heartbreak Hotel” and an electrifying stage presence. His influence on popular music and culture is immortal, and his status as the King of Roll ‘’n’ Roll, even today, 70 years after his breakthrough into the world spotlight, is a testament to his everlasting legacy.
As you can see, there are so many exciting moments coming up in 2026, but we have a question for you…
Which anniversary would you most like to see immortalised in a coin? Share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate history together.
