King Charles £5 note with CA01 serial number could be worth £17,000
King Charles £5 note with CA01 code could be worth £17,000

A rare coins expert has urged Brits to check their wallets for a King Charles III £5 note that could be worth far more than its face value. Social media user Dan's Dollars highlighted that notes from the early printing issue, particularly those with serial numbers beginning CA01, can command thousands at auction.

The Key Detail on the Reverse

King Charles III notes entered general circulation in June 2024. In a YouTube video, Dan explained that the value lies in the reverse of the notes, which features former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. He urged his followers to keep checking for rare serial numbers primarily beginning with CA01.

While 999,000 notes were printed in the initial CA01 batch, the earlier the better, according to Dan. Specific examples carrying these serial numbers are listed for more than £17,000 at auction.

Current Listings and Reactions

At present, several CA01 £5 notes are listed on eBay with three-figure price tags. One particular note carries a Buy It Now price of £10,086.70. Dan concluded by urging viewers to send him the serial numbers of their notes for an accurate valuation.

Responding to a follower's question about what makes these notes scarce, he clarified: "People hunt for CA01s - the first of the note released." Reacting to Dan, one viewer declared: "I've got one!" Yet another regretted: "I've had few Charles ones like this but didn't realise they were worth keeping."

Sceptics and Dan's Response

One sceptic remarked: "Nobody actually buys them though. I have loads been collecting for a while but nothing ever sells online." This prompted Dan to respond: "I can assure you they do, check sold on eBay. Happy hunting."

Meanwhile, a second person dismissed the idea: "Don't think anyone's spending £17,000 for a £5." And a third critic stated: "Anybody who pays more than face value for a note must be mad." However, Dan hit back: "CA01 000002 would sell for that if the King spent it. Three sold for £14,000 at auction. People like to collect rare notes and coins. I think people who buy Doritos when they aren't on offer are mad!"

Serial Number Variations

While some notes can make thousands at auction, it's important to acknowledge that particular serial numbers are far more desirable than others. Standard or higher serial numbers typically sell for between £15 and upwards of £500, while ultra-low serial numbers such as CA01 000046 have reached as much as £2,800 on eBay in recent years. So ensure you check thoroughly before listing your cash.