Honda gets its own legal tender

Motorcycle racing longevity certainly gains some currency in the marketplace - quite literally.

To commemorate Honda's 50th anniversary of world championship racing, the UK arm of the Japanese giant and the Isle of Man Treasury have officially launched a special 50 pence circulatory coin.

The coin depicts Honda's multiple-winning TT rider John McGuinness on a CBR1000RR Fireblade from his record breaking lap in 2007, above the dates 1959-2009.

The design also contains the 2009 Isle of Man TT logo, as well as the Honda Wing logo, highlighting the close association between the two organisations.

The coins are manufactured to the highest quality, and the silver versions (production of 5000) are struck four times to produce a mirror-finish background with the design sculpted in striking relief. The reverse of the 50 pence coin bears the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The mass production circulatory coin is produced in cupro nickel diamond finish.

The first coin was recently struck by McGuinness, who was delighted with the honour.

"I didn't know really what to expect, but learning all about the production process of different coins was really interesting and there's so much more to it than you'd ever imagine. We all handle coins every day and have no idea or thought of what's involved.

"Only a few people, including the Queen, have had the experience of striking the first of a new circulatory coin so I feel quite privileged and thank Honda (UK), the Isle of Man Treasury… for inviting me to do this."

McGuinness, alongside Honda teammate Steve Plater, will compete in this year's Isle of Man TT, which starts on May 30. Their major opposition is likely to come from Australia's Cameron Donald, who powered to the superbike and superstock double in 2008.

McGuinness won last year's Senior TT.

For more information on the Isle of Man TT, click here.