An expert has explained exactly what to look for
Brits have been urged to keep an eye out for a penny coin worth up to £300. The coin in question is not only old but bears a rare marking on one side.
In a video uploaded to social media platform TikTok, an expert known as the Coin Collecting Wizard told his followers to look for an 1882 “H” penny. This piece features Queen Victoria on its obverse (head side) and an image of Britannia on the reverse (tail side).
While this itself isn’t particularly valuable, those with a tiny mark can sell for considerably more. The mark you are looking for is a small “H” under the year 1882 on its reverse side.
In the video, the expert said: “This is unbelievable. £300 for an old penny. Ever seen an 1882 British penny with a tiny H underneath Britannia? If you have, you might be wondering, is this rare?
“Is it worth big money? Let’s find out.”
He explained what the “H” represents. These versions of the coin were struck by the Heaton and Sons Mint, rather than the Royal Mint.
“The H stands for the Heaton and Sons Mint in Birmingham, which struck a small batch of these pennies in 1882,” he said. “But here’s the key question, are they valuable?
“While the ‘H’ version is less common than the standard 1882 penny, it’s not super rare. Most are worth £5 to £30, depending on condition.”
However, those in good condition can sell for far more. He continued: “But if you have that little ‘H’ on your coin, then if yours is in top condition, it can sell for £300 or more.
“So if you’ve got one, it’s a cool piece of history. But unless it’s in top shape, don’t expect to retire just yet.”
At the time of reporting, the Dorset Coin Company was selling a version of this coin for £195. On its website, it said: “The 1882 H penny was struck in bronze.
“The obverse side of the coin depicts the young bust of Queen Victoria wearing a bodice, mantle, and circular brooch, with her hair in a bun and decorated with a wreath of leaves and berries.
“The reverse side of the coin depicts Britannia seated to the right, and the date is inscribed in the exergue. This bronze penny coin had a mintage figure of 7,526,400.”
And GB Classic Coins has the coin listed for £225.
