A listing of these coins, issued from 1986 to 1996, may be found at the following link. Two Pound Coin Designs. The commemorative £2 coins were issued to mark special occasions rather than for use in general circulation.They are legal tender but contrary to popular belief this does not mean that banks and retailers automatically have to accept them.Indeed you will probably find that most banks and retailers refuse. listing of these coins, issued from 1986 to 1996, may be found at the following link. Two Pound Coin Designs. The commemorative £2 coins were issued to mark special occasions rather than for use in general circulation.