In 1999, the world’s top rugby nations gathered to compete for the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup in the Rugby World Cup finals. Hosted by the Welsh Rugby Union, matches were played across the Five Nations—Wales, England, Ireland, Scotland, and France. The tournament, held during rugby union’s professional era, culminated in Australia defeating France 35–12 in the final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, becoming the first team to win the cup twice.

To commemorate this landmark sporting event, The Royal Mint issued a special £2 coin. Designed by Ron Dutton, the reverse features a dynamic depiction of a stadium with a rugby ball and goalposts superimposed in the foreground. Additional goalposts encircle the design, symbolizing the global reach of the sport. The edge inscription reads “RUGBY WORLD CUP 1999,” capturing the spirit of competition and celebration that defined this historic tournament.

*Image is representative of the coin you will receive 

**Struck for general circulation and subsequently acquired by The Royal Mint from the secondary market.