A new commemorative 50p coin to mark Britain's departure from the European Union is inscribed with a phrase inspired by an American president.

Sajid Javid, the chancellor, originally ordered production of the celebratory coins in advance of the original departure date of October 31.

But the Brexit delay meant about a million coins had to be melted down and the metal - gold, silver and cupronickel - saved until a new exit date was confirmed.

Today the chancellor has unveiled a new coin bearing the date January 31 and the inscription "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations."

The words echo a famous quote from the first inaugural address of Thomas Jefferson, a driving force behind American independence, and the third president of the UnitedStates.

About three million Brexit coins will enter circulation around the UK from Friday - the day the UK leaves the EU -with a further seven million to be added later in theyear.

As part of the launch of the coin, the Royal Mint will open its doors for 24 hours to let people strike their own commemorative Brexit coins.

Javid, who is Master of the Mint, was given the first batch of coins, and will present one to Boris Johnson.

To read the complete articles, see:
Brexit 50p coins quote American founding father(https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/brexit-50p-coins-quote-american-founding-father-wf0cs8ldj)
Brexit day 50p coin unveiled by Chancellor Sajid Javid (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-51250753)