How 3-letter mistake on your 2p coin could make it worth £1000 – do you have one in your pocket?
IF you have a rare 2p coin lying around you may have more than just pesky copper cash in your wallet.
TikToker @CoinCollectingWizard claims some people have a 2p coin that could unwittingly lead to a small fortune.
In a recent clip, he said: “£1,000 if your 2p says New Pence. 1983 only – not 1971.
“The 1983 New Pence coin was a mistake in Royal Mint coin packs when they changed the wording from New Pence to Two Pence.
“If you find a 2p coin, then check it first of all for the words New Pence.
“If it says New Pence, then check it for the date of 1983.”
The TikTok clip has racked up over 4,300 likes and over 300 have commented, grateful the coin expert shared the handy advice.
The Royal Mint says: “All 2p coins struck between 1971 and 1981 included the words ‘NEW PENCE’ as part of their reverse.
“In 1982 and in subsequent years the words ‘NEW PENCE’ were replaced with the word ‘TWO PENCE’.
“However, in 1983 a small number of 2p coins were mistakenly struck with the wording ‘NEW PENCE’ on the reverse.
“These coins were produced to brilliant uncirculated quality – a standard higher than ordinary circulating coins – and were included in special sets intended for collectors.
“Since there are relatively few coins with the date 1983 and the inscription ‘NEW PENCE’ in circulation, they may well have a value higher than face value to a collector.
“The Royal Mint is, however, unable to comment on the value of any individual coin and we would recommend that you should consult a coin dealer.”
They recommended you head to the British Numismatic Trade Association’s website to locate a trusty coin dealer.
This comes after we revealed that a rare Royal Mint 20p coin fetched more than £60 at auction.
This is because an error on your 20p coin means that it could sell for more than 300 times its worth.
The lucrative 20p piece is known as a “mule” coin, released into circulation in 2008 after a manufacturing error.
Traditionally, coins would be dated on the “tails” side. But in 2008, the Royal Mint decided to move the date to the “heads” side.
However, a minting error caused a small number of 20p coins to be released without any date on at all.
This was the first time in 300 years that British coins were released into circulation with no date on them.
How do I safely store valuable coins?
HERE are some tricks to keep your valuable coins safe from toning:
- Store your coins in individual containers
- Put it in a clear, air tight holder that lets you see the coin from both sides
- Avoid putting them in clear plastic sandwich bags because they can still rub against each other an may cause scratches or marks
- Store your collection in a folder or album, although tarnishing may occur quicker than in an airtight container
- Keep them out of a damp environment. You can use silica gel to help prevent damp
- Wear clean, white gloves when handling the coins
- Steer clear of using PVC materials as it traps moisture and releases acidic gases which can damage the collection.