September is Literacy Month, and International Literacy Day was celebrated on the 8th. We love books and decided to encourage the joy of reading by getting behind Literacy Month. We immediately thought of Mr Happy and the other Mr. Men Little Miss characters. For many of us, Mr.Men and Little Miss were part of our childhood.  Some of us had a few well-read paperbacks, and the lucky ones had the complete box set on their shelf. 

Initially inspired by the simple question of a child – “What does a tickle look like?” – the Mr. Men Little Miss characters have become some of the most instantly recognisable in the world. Featured in more than 90 books, as well as starring in films and TV series, their adventures have been translated into 17 different languages and followed by millions of fans. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the question that started it all and the book that answered that question: Mr. Tickle.

Created by prolific illustrator Roger Hargreaves in 1971, the Mr Men books and their ever-growing world of ‘Happyland’ were an almost instant success. They were soon joined by the characters of the Little Miss series, and the exploits of both remain incredibly popular to this day, encouraging children to read and helping family generations to bond.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of this book series, the Royal Mint has released The 50th Anniversary of Mr Men 2021 Collection. The South African Gold Coin Exchange & The Scoin Shop are delighted to toast these beloved Mr Men and Little Miss characters with a series of gold and silver collectable coins.

In 1988, the role of Mr. Men Little Miss illustrator was taken over by Adam Hargreaves – Roger’s son - the same inquisitive boy who had asked what a tickle looked like. Adam has exclusively provided the reverse designs for all three of The Royal Mint coins celebrating the characters’ 50th anniversary for the 2021 Collection. 

Showing additional support for Literacy Month, we have joined forces with Jonathan Ball Publishers, Exclusive Books, Bargain Books and Readers Warehouse to encourage reading. During October and November, we are rolling out Mr Happy 50th Anniversary celebrations with countrywide children’s book events planned at leading book retailers. Together with Jonathan Ball Publishers, Exclusive Books, Bargain Books and Readers Warehouse, we are also giving you the chance to win silver 1oz Mr Happy 50th Anniversary coins. Keep your eye on their social media platforms to get your entry in.