Collectable British coins span centuries, from rare medieval gold to modern, high-value 50p pieces. Top-tier, rare, and highly valued coins include the 1933 George V penny, the 1937 Edward VIII sovereign, the 1703 Queen Anne Vigo Five-Guinea, and the 1839 Una and the Lion £5 coin. Modern, high-value 50p coins include the 2009 Kew Gardens, 2018 Peter Rabbit, and 2018 Flopsy Bunny.
The 50p coin continues to be a favourite for UK collectors, with certain issues standing out as particularly valuable. From the legendary 2009 Kew Gardens coin to the sought-after 2011 Olympic Football design, these coins prove that small change can sometimes be worth far more than 50p.
Cherished for its rarity and connection to the momentous sporting event, the 2002 Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland £2 coin is a gem with collectors. Featuring the Ulster Banner alongside a victorious figure, the coin holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and sporting enthusiasts.
Top 25 Rare British Coins Worth More Than Their Face Value
Why is a 1997 50p coin valuable?
No 50ps intended for circulation were struck to the old, larger specification in 1997. However, there were brilliant uncirculated and proof coins produced to the old larger specification for collectors.
Many times a key date coin also involves a mintmark. For example, a Washington quarter from 1932 would be a tremendous find in your change—worth a few dollars. But if there is a “D” or “S” mintmark on the reverse, the value of the coin jumps to a few hundred dollars! On occasion, you will find coins that are older.
A coin is ultimately worth what the collector is willing to pay for it, but there are factors you should consider before committing to a price. This can include the condition of the coin, its design, mintage figure and what it's made of.
There are many approaches to collecting coins. Common collection themes include country of origin, time period, coin finish, denomination, mint mark, design theme, and artist. The Mint makes yearly sets, such as uncirculated, proof, and quarter sets, that make it easier to collect based on some of these themes.
Arguably the most valuable one penny coin is the 1933 George V penny, which is worth an estimated value of £72,000. Although this was originally created as a pattern coin – which means it is not intended for release into circulation – it is believed seven were issued, making them extraordinarily rare.
Queen Elizabeth II coins vary greatly in value, from face value for common circulated coins (like most £1 coins) to hundreds or thousands of pounds for rare proofs, low mintage issues (like some 2022 £1s or specific 50p/£2 coins), error coins, or special commemorative editions in pristine condition, with collectors seeking low mintage or unique variations, not just any old coin. Check for low mintage years, special designs (Beatrix Potter, Britannia, etc.), error coins (double strikes), or proof sets for potential value beyond face value.
If your coins were minted before 1947, it might be more than you think. In the past, British coins were made of precious metals like gold and silver. This means that old money can be worth much more than its face value.
While you may be tempted to polish your coins to make them look shiny and new, proceed with caution. Polishing and/or cleaning coins can reduce their value. Older coins that show deep age coloration are more desirable than coins whose surfaces have been stripped away by improper polishing or cleaning.
What rare Beatrix Potter coin goes on sale for 4000 on eBay?
A rare 50p coin is being sold on on eBay for £4,000. The item is listed on the online marketplace for 8,000 times its face value and features Beatrix Potter character, Peter Rabbit. With Queen Elizabeth II on the back, the coin dates back to 2017.
The lump is most likely due to a cracked die being used during the striking process, causing the metal to pool. Other listings for the coin featuring this 'error' show different size 'lumps' under the foot, probably having been struck at different stages of die deterioration.
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