For most people, coins are just loose change in their pocket, but did you know some of the coins in circulation today could actually be worth far more than their face value? Collectors across the UK are always hunting for rare designs, misprints, and limited-edition coins. If you’re lucky, you might already have one in your wallet or piggy bank.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 valuable UK coins still in circulation, explain why they’re worth more, and share tips on how to spot them. Keep reading – that 50p or £2 coin you casually spend at the shop could actually be worth hundreds
Why Are Some UK Coins Valuable?
Certain coins become valuable for a few key reasons:
- Limited minting numbers – fewer coins means higher rarity.
- Commemorative releases – celebrating an event, person, or anniversary.
- Errors and misprints – coins with mistakes are highly sought-after.
- Collector demand – when more people want the same coin, prices rise.
1. The Kew Gardens 50p (2009)
The Kew Gardens 50p is the holy grail of modern UK coins. Only 210,000 were minted in 2009, making it one of the rarest 50p coins ever produced. The design features the famous Kew Gardens pagoda with a decorative vine.
Today, this coin regularly sells for £100 to £200 on eBay, sometimes even higher depending on condition. If you find one, don’t spend it – keep it safe!
2. Olympic 50p Coins (2011)
To celebrate the London 2012 Olympics, the Royal Mint released 29 different 50p designs, each representing a different Olympic sport.
Some are fairly common, but others like Wrestling, Football (Offside Rule), and Judo are much rarer. Collectors pay anywhere from £5 to £40 per coin, with complete sets worth well over £100.
3. Peter Rabbit 50p (2016)
Part of the Beatrix Potter 150th Anniversary collection, the 2016 Peter Rabbit 50p was hugely popular with families and collectors.
It’s not the rarest coin, but demand makes it valuable. A circulated coin can fetch £5–£10, while uncirculated versions are worth more.
4. Paddington Bear 50p Coins (2018–2019)
The lovable Paddington Bear appeared on four different 50p coins, featuring him at iconic London locations like Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Though millions were minted, they remain highly collectible, often selling for £2–£5 each. A full set is more desirable and can sell for £20+.
5. Undated 20p Coin (2008 Error)
One of the most famous error coins, the undated 20p was mistakenly minted without a date in 2008. Only around 250,000 were released, making it incredibly rare.
Some have sold for £100–£200, depending on condition. If you find one, you’re holding a piece of UK coinage history.
6. The NHS 50p (1998 & 2020)
The 1998 NHS 50p was released to mark the 50th anniversary of the NHS. It is considered collectible and can fetch £3–£10.
In 2020, another NHS coin was released, this time to celebrate healthcare workers during the pandemic. This one is already popular with collectors, though not as rare yet.
7. Shakespeare £2 Coins (2016)
The Royal Mint celebrated William Shakespeare with three different £2 coins:
- Comedies
- Histories
- Tragedies
The Tragedies design (skull with rose) is the rarest and most valuable, sometimes selling for £15–£25, while the other designs usually fetch £5–£10 each.
8. Commonwealth Games £2 Coin (2002)
The 2002 £2 coin marking the Commonwealth Games in Manchester comes in four different versions – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The Northern Ireland version is the rarest, with only 485,500 minted. It can sell for £50–£70, making it one of the most valuable £2 coins in circulation.
9. Benjamin Bunny 50p (2017)
Another Beatrix Potter character, Benjamin Bunny, appeared on a 2017 50p. While millions were made, it remains collectible.
Circulated versions sell for around £2–£3, while uncirculated ones can be worth £10 or more.
10. Britannia £2 Coins (1997–2015)
Before the introduction of newer designs, the Britannia £2 coin was minted between 1997 and 2015. Some early versions, especially proof sets and misprints, are in high demand.
Collectors pay £10–£30, depending on rarity and quality.
How to Check If Your Coins Are Valuable
If you’re unsure whether a coin is valuable, here are a few quick steps:
- Check the year and design carefully.
- Look for errors such as missing details or misprints.
- Compare on eBay to see recent sold listings.
- Use coin apps or Royal Mint guides for reference.
Where to Sell Valuable Coins
If you discover a rare coin, you have a few selling options:
- eBay – the most popular platform for coin collectors.
- Facebook Marketplace or groups – fast local sales.
- Coin dealers or auctions – ideal for very rare finds.
- Coin fairs – great for meeting collectors face-to-face.
Tips for Coin Collectors in the UK
- Always check your change before spending.
- Store coins safely in protective cases.
- Keep sets together – full collections are worth more.
- Stay updated on new Royal Mint releases.
Final Thoughts
You might think that coins in your pocket are worth no more than face value, but as we’ve seen, some are worth dozens or even hundreds of pounds.
From the Kew Gardens 50p to the Commonwealth Games £2, these coins prove that everyday change can hold hidden treasures. Next time you pay at the shop or count your piggy bank, take a closer look – you never know what rare coin might be waiting to be discovered.