National Lottery launches its own scratchcard coin as Brits stop carrying cash

The National Lottery has launched a limited-edition ‘scratch-coins’ designed by London-based artist Hattie Stewart

The National Lottery has created its very own coins for use with scratchcards because Brits have largely stopped carrying cash. The National Lottery teamed up with London-based artist and illustrator Hattie Stewart, who has worked on campaigns for the likes of Sephora, Nike and Gucci, to produce the limited-edition ‘scratch-coins.’

Made from recycled materials and slightly larger than a £2 coin, each design showcases the brand’s iconic crossed-fingers logo, the “It could be you” slogan, along with the number 30 to mark three decades since its scratchcards first launched.

Hattie Stewart said: “I wanted the coin to feel fun, celebratory and full of personality. I’ve been fortunate to have my designs featured on guitars, watches, clothing but never ‘money’.”

“The idea of one of my designs being actually minted is really special and it’s fun to add a pop of colour to something which isn’t usually colourful.”

The coins were unveiled following a survey of 2,000 adults, also commissioned by the brand, which revealed that 65% of people don’t carry cash most of the time.

However, the move away from physical currency isn’t without its drawbacks, as 40% of people have found themselves unable to pay for everyday items after being caught without coins or notes.

This proved most problematic when needing a coin for a shopping trolley, using a pay-per-use public toilet, and leaving a tip.

When Brits have purchased a scratchcard but found themselves without a coin, many have turned to more inventive methods, with 40% resorting to a key and 13% using a pen.

The coins are available from Saturday May 23 at selected retailers across the UK and come free with the purchase of any National Lottery scratchcard – while stocks last.