If you’re an avid coin collector or simply curious about what treasures might be lurking in your change, there are some £2 coins in circulation that could significantly increase your wealth.
Some of these rare £2 coins have gained immense value due to their scarcity, unique designs, and historical significance. In this article, we explore five of the rarest £2 coins, their key features, and their potential value.
5 Rare £2 Coins Could Make You Rich Overnight
1. 2002 Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland £2 Coin
The 2002 Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland £2 coin is arguably the rarest and most valuable of all £2 coins in circulation. Part of a set of four coins released to commemorate the XVII Commonwealth Games in Manchester, it features the Northern Ireland flag and a distinctive design.
- Mintage: Only 485,500 coins were minted.
- Current Value: This coin can fetch between £30 and £72 at auction, depending on its condition. Collectors prize this coin for its low mintage and the significance of the event it commemorates.
2. 2015 Britannia £2 Coin
The Britannia £2 coin, issued in 2015, is another highly sought-after coin among collectors. Britannia is an iconic figure, representing British national pride, and her return to £2 coins was highly anticipated.
- Mintage: Only 650,000 coins were produced, making it one of the rarest £2 coins in circulation.
- Current Value: This coin typically sells for £10 to £20, though error versions (such as those with a misaligned effigy) can sell for significantly more, sometimes up to £50.
3. 2008 Olympic Games Centenary £2 Coin
This coin commemorates the centenary of the 1908 London Olympic Games and is another rare find in circulation. The coin’s design features a racing track and Olympic symbolism.
- Mintage: 910,000 coins were released.
- Current Value: On average, these coins sell for £5–£8, but in pristine condition, they can fetch up to £14.
4. 2016 Shakespeare Tragedies £2 Coin (Error Coin)
The 2016 Shakespeare Tragedies £2 coin was part of a three-coin series celebrating Shakespeare’s legacy. What makes this coin valuable is an error found in some versions, where the edge inscription reads “FOR KING AND COUNTRY” instead of “WHAT A PIECE OF WORK IS A MAN.”
- Mintage: Over 4 million coins were released, but only a few with the error exist.
- Current Value: The error versions have sold for as much as £64 on eBay.
5. 2011 Mary Rose £2 Coin
This coin commemorates the iconic Tudor warship, the Mary Rose, which sank in 1545. It’s a favorite among collectors due to its historical significance and striking design.
- Mintage: 1,040,000 coins were minted.
- Current Value: These coins typically sell for £7–£9, with higher prices achieved for coins in excellent condition.
Summary of the Most Valuable £2 Coins
| Coin Name | Year | Mintage | Average Value (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland | 2002 | 485,500 | 30–72 | Rarest of the four Commonwealth Games coins |
| Britannia £2 Coin | 2015 | 650,000 | 10–20 | Error versions can fetch up to £50 |
| Olympic Games Centenary | 2008 | 910,000 | 5–14 | Commemorates the 1908 Olympic Games |
| Shakespeare Tragedies (Error Coin) | 2016 | 4,615,000 | 64 (error coins) | Error in edge inscription increases value |
| Mary Rose £2 Coin | 2011 | 1,040,000 | 7–9 | Celebrates the famous Tudor warship |
How to Identify Rare £2 Coins
Identifying rare £2 coins involves looking at a few key factors:
- Mintage: Coins with low mintages are generally rarer and more valuable.
- Condition: Coins in mint condition, particularly those that are uncirculated or have minimal wear, command higher prices.
- Errors: Coins with minting errors, such as incorrect inscriptions or misaligned designs, can be worth significantly more than their face value.
How to Sell Rare £2 Coins
Once you’ve identified a rare £2 coin, you can sell it through various platforms, such as eBay, auction houses, or to private collectors. Ensure that you research the current market value to get a fair price.
Conclusion
Rare £2 coins can turn up in the most unexpected places, from pocket change to old coin collections. If you come across any of the coins listed above, you could be holding something worth far more than its face value. Be sure to check the condition and any potential errors before selling, as these factors can dramatically affect the price.
In the world of numismatics, values can fluctuate based on market demand, so it’s always worth doing your research and consulting with experts before parting with a rare coin.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my £2 coin is valuable?
Look for key factors such as low mintage, historical significance, and minting errors. The condition of the coin also plays a significant role in its value.
2. What is the rarest £2 coin in circulation?
The 2002 Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland £2 coin is considered the rarest, with only 485,500 minted.
3. Are error coins worth more than regular coins?
Yes, error coins, such as the 2016 Shakespeare Tragedies £2 coin with the wrong inscription, can be worth significantly more than standard coins.
4. Where can I sell my rare £2 coins?
You can sell rare coins on platforms like eBay, through coin dealers, or at coin auctions. It’s best to research the coin’s value before selling.
5. Can I still use rare £2 coins as regular currency?
Yes, rare £2 coins are still legal tender, but their collector’s value often exceeds their face value.
References
- Research on coin values and mintage statistics.
- Auctions and sales data from online platforms like eBay.
- Error coin analysis based on collector feedback and market trends.
