A two-word error could make this coin very valuable
An expert has urged Brits to check their change for a rare coin that could be worth over £1,000. This highly sought-after 2p coin from the 1980s is worth far more than its face value.
The coin is especially coveted owing to a mistake made by the Royal Mint during production. Minted in 1983, it mistakenly displays the inscription “new pence” rather than “two pence”.
This occurred because all 2p coins manufactured between 1971 and 1981 carried the “new pence” designation. While this was subsequently amended to “two pence” in 1982, a handful were struck incorrectly.
In a video uploaded to social media platform TikTok, an expert known as the Coin Collecting Wizard explained more. He said: “The 1983 ‘new pence’ two pence coin from the United Kingdom is considered rare due to a specific transition in the design of the coin.
“In 1983, the Royal Mint in the UK began the process of changing the inscription on the two pence coin from ‘new pence’ to ‘two pence’. If you find this rare coin, you are looking at £1,000 plus.”
Coin valuation professionals at Change Checker, previously speaking via TikTok, have suggested these particular coins might fetch approximately £1,000.
They explained: “In 1982 the design of the 2p coin changed from saying ‘new pence’ to ‘two pence’. “However, some coins struck in 1983 used the old reverse die and therefore have the old inscription of ‘new pence’.
Therefore, it’s worth examining your new pence 2p coins for the 1983 date, as it could be worth as much as £1,000. ” According to The Royal Mint’s website: “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.”
