The 2023 Atlantic Salmon 50p is now the rarest 50p coin in UK circulation, with only 200,000 in public hands. Coin experts say it can be worth up to £80, making it more valuable than the famous Kew Gardens 50p.
What makes it so rare?
The Atlantic Salmon 50p was released a few years ago, but as of 2023, it has become the most sought-after. According to the Royal Mint, its mintage of just 200,000 makes it officially the rarest 50p in active circulation, marginally lower than the Kew Gardens 50p from 2009.
One in every 355 households in the UK might have one, based on the circulation figures. A previous survey found that 30% of respondents had discovered a 2023 Salmon 50p in their loose change.
Expert insights
The @CoinCollectingWizard, a coin expert with 271,000 TikTok followers, highlighted the coin's value. He said: "You can find this worth £80. About 160 times its face value is the 2023 Atlantic Salmon 50p coin."
He noted that the coin features a portrait of King Charles III, sculpted by Martin Jennings. However, because it carries no privy mark, it is the rarest standard circulating 50p ever produced.
He explained: "Only the version dated 2023 and lacking the small crown privy mark found in annual sets is truly rare. Circulated pieces with this design entered everyday use and now command collector interest."
Market value and caution
Recent eBay sales for this coin have fetched £70-£80, with some reports reaching more depending on condition and demand. However, circulated versions typically sell for between £50 and £90 on the secondary market.
Collectors warn that there are many fake versions online, so be cautious. The 2020 Brexit coin, for example, is worth just 50p, while a 2019 Brexit coin can sell for £40,000. The same coin expert also issued a warning about the Atlantic Salmon 50p being listed for £10,000, but such prices are likely inflated.
