The Royal Mint has recently confirmed something exciting: there’s a rare 50p coin that could be hiding in your pocket change. This coin, part of a commemorative series celebrating the ascension of King Charles III, has become one of the most sought-after in circulation.
Last year, 200,000 Atlantic Salmon 50p coins were released into the market. This makes them officially the rarest 50p coins, surpassing the famous Kew Gardens coin, which had 210,000 minted over 15 years ago. Collectors have been eager to find one, and the value of the Atlantic Salmon coin is skyrocketing.
The Value Surge: Atlantic Salmon vs. Kew Gardens Coin
Although the Kew Gardens coin remains the most expensive 50p, priced at £145, the Atlantic Salmon coin’s value has been growing much faster. According to the eBay tracker, since June, the price of the Atlantic Salmon coin has jumped by almost £70. On the other hand, the Kew Gardens coin has seen a slight decrease in value—down by £3 in the same period.
This is a significant shift in the coin market, and it’s clear that the Atlantic Salmon coin is now the one to watch. Other valuable coins, like the rarest Olympic 50p and the Commonwealth £2, are also losing value, further highlighting the growing demand for this new, rare coin.
The Rarity of the Atlantic Salmon Coin
What makes the Atlantic Salmon coin so rare? Well, only one in 335 people in the UK is likely to come across one in their daily change. This makes finding one of these coins an exciting moment for any collector. Sales have been climbing rapidly since the announcement of its rarity, with online prices soaring as collectors rush to grab one before the price rises even further.
In fact, on October 7, a single Atlantic Salmon coin sold for £164, with six bidders competing for it. Another coin sold on December 16 for £147 after 37 bids. It’s clear that this coin is in high demand and continues to climb in value.
What Makes a Coin Valuable?
You may be wondering: what exactly makes a coin valuable? The worth of a coin depends on several factors, including its rarity and condition. In the case of the Atlantic Salmon coin, its limited mintage and the interest from collectors have contributed to its rising price. However, even if a coin is rare, its value is only what someone is willing to pay for it.
If you’re not sure how much your rare coin is worth, you can always check its value by looking at listings online. For example, see how much other people are selling similar coins for. You can also use Change Checker’s Scarcity Index to get an estimate of a coin’s value.
Some rare coins, especially those with manufacturing mistakes (known as error coins), can be worth thousands of pounds. Some have sold for as much as £1,500 to £2,500, depending on their rarity and condition.
How to Sell a Rare Coin
So, you’ve found a rare coin like the Atlantic Salmon 50p, and now you’re wondering how to sell it. There are several ways to go about it:
- Facebook and eBay: Many people sell rare coins on platforms like Facebook and eBay. While these platforms are convenient, there are risks involved. Scammers sometimes target sellers by asking for money upfront or claiming they need funds to pay for courier services—only for the goods never to arrive. If you decide to sell on these platforms, take precautions and ensure you meet buyers in person in a safe location.
- Royal Mint Collector’s Service: For those who want to ensure the authenticity and proper value of their coin, selling through the Royal Mint’s service is a safe option. Their team of experts will authenticate and evaluate the coin and guide you through the selling process. However, this service does come with a fee, which some may prefer to avoid by selling on their own through eBay.
- Auction Houses: If you want to go down the auction route, it’s a great way to reach collectors who are specifically looking for rare coins. You can organize an auction through various platforms, but be mindful of the auction fees and commissions.
- Know Your Coin’s Worth: If you’re unsure about how to price your coin, one trick is to see what other sellers are asking for similar items. For example, if you have an Atlantic Salmon coin in good condition, and other sellers are listing it for £85 or more, you can use this as a starting point when setting your price.
Final Thoughts
Rare coins, especially those from the Royal Mint, can be a hidden treasure in your pocket change. If you have an Atlantic Salmon 50p coin, you may be sitting on a valuable collector’s item. As demand for these coins continues to grow, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on their value. Whether you decide to sell or keep your coin, one thing is certain: this rare find is worth more than its face value.
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Premlata is a seasoned finance writer with a keen eye for unraveling complex global financial systems. From government benefits to energy rebates and recruitment trends, she empowers readers with actionable insights and clarity. When she’s not crafting impactful articles, you can find her sharing her expertise on LinkedIn or connecting via email at biswaspremlata@gmail.com.
