A coin collecting expert has revealed that a specific 2p piece from 1983 could be worth a small fortune, urging the public to check their spare change for a simple but costly mistake.
The key to unlocking this windfall lies in spotting just two words on the coin's reverse side. If your 1983 two pence piece bears the inscription 'new pence' instead of 'two pence', you could be holding a collector's item valued at more than £1,000.
The Minting Mistake That Created a Rarity
This valuable error originates from a production blunder at the Royal Mint. All 2p coins minted between 1971 and 1981 correctly featured the words 'new pence'.
The inscription was officially updated to 'two pence' from 1982 onwards. However, in 1983, a small number of coins were accidentally struck using the old 'new pence' design.
An expert, known online as the Coin Collecting Wizard, explained the find in a viral TikTok video. He stated: "This coin is worth over one thousand pounds. In 1983 the Royal Mint accidentally minted the two pence coin with 'new pence' instead of 'two pence'."
How to Identify the Valuable 1983 Coin
To have a chance of finding this treasure, you must locate a 2p coin dated 1983. The crucial next step is to turn it over and examine the reverse side carefully.
You are looking for the words 'new pence' clearly stamped on the coin. The expert advised collectors: "Make sure to check any 1983 Royal Mint sets for this two pence coin. Just remember you want the 1983 coin two pence 'new pence'."
He added that these coins are not typically found in everyday circulation, as they were produced to a higher 'brilliant uncirculated quality' and were mainly included in special collector sets.
Official Recognition and Market Value
The Royal Mint itself acknowledges the error on its official website. It confirms that a small number of these coins were mistakenly struck in 1983 and that their rarity could give them a value significantly higher than their face value to a collector.
The market seems to agree with this assessment. At the time of reporting, one example of this rare 2p coin was listed for sale on eBay with an asking price of £2,499.95.
The Coin Collecting Wizard suggests that the value is only likely to increase, telling his followers: "This is only going to go up in value. So, get checking and comment below if you need my help."
If you think you might have one, the Royal Mint recommends consulting a professional coin dealer for an accurate valuation.
