The coin isn’t exactly old, but holds historical importance in the UK
If you’ve got a pile of spare change lying around, it might be worth giving it a second glance. Coin experts have highlighted an unexpected British coin that could make you a hefty sum.
The peculiar, gold £2 piece isn’t exactly ancient, having been minted just 13 years ago in 2012. However, its historical significance is what makes it special, marking a worldwide event centred on London. “Struck to commemorate the transition of the Olympic Games from London to Rio de Janeiro, the 2012 Olympic Games Handover £2 coin symbolises the passing of the Olympic flag from one host city to another,” the Royal Mint explains.
“The reverse design, created by Jonathan Olliffe, depicts a baton being passed between two hands, with the flags of the UK and Brazil joined in motion.
“Like its predecessor, the coin carries the edge inscription ‘I CALL UPON THE YOUTH OF THE WORLD’.” In 2012, London made history as the first city to host the Olympic Games three times, having done so already in 1908 and 1948.
More than 10,000 athletes competed in 26 sports at the newly built Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. When the Games were transferred to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, only 1,200 gold £2 coins were produced to mark the event, according to MJ Hughes Coins.
This partly accounts for their high value, with coin dealers at Bullion By Post and Chards currently listing gold editions at £1,783 and £1,904 respectively, though they are currently out of stock at Chards. “The 2012 Olympic Handover to Rio £2 coin was issued to mark the handover from London to the next Olympic Games host, Rio de Janeiro,” Chards writes in regards to the ‘2012 UK Coin £2 Gold Proof Olympic Handover to Rio’.
“The 2012 Olympic Handover £2 coin was also produced in the following finishes: uncirculated, brilliant uncirculated in a presentation folder, silver proof and silver proof piedfort.” Despite these impressive valuations, it is vital to recognise that a coin’s value is greatly affected by its condition.
Chris Yang, Co-founder of Coins Value, previously told the Daily Star: “Coins in perfect ‘mint’ condition are worth far more than their well-worn, damaged, and poor-condition counterparts. Sometimes a minor difference in grade translates to hundreds, maybe thousands in value.”
He also mentioned that it’s ‘best practice’ to keep rare coins unless you urgently need money. “The better issues of these important coins gain in value over time,” he continued. “The prices of these scarce coins are subject to some uncertainty based on alterations in the overall market and economy.
“When selling, shop around various dealers and obtain the best price. An auction house is considered to achieve the maximum value for really spectacular pieces. Be prepared to pay a 10-20% commission on the selling price.
“…Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn’t always about striking gold; it’s about connecting with history and uncovering hidden treasures. Your old coin jar might hold more than just spare change – it could be a portal to a fascinating past.”
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