A 'super rare' 50p coin could be worth up to £40,000, but only if it bears a specific tiny feature on the front. According to TikTok coin expert @CoinCollectingWizard, who has 270,000 followers, the key lies in the date on the Brexit 50p piece.
The Brexit 50p Coin Error
The official 2020 Brexit 50p coin was minted in millions for circulation and typically displays the date 31 January 2020. However, due to multiple postponements of Brexit, the Royal Mint was forced to melt down and re-engrave batches of the coin. As a result, a small number of coins were struck with incorrect dates, such as 29 March 2019 or 31 October 2019.
@CoinCollectingWizard explained: 'If you find the Brexit 50p coin in your change, which is most likely as millions were minted for circulation, then all you need to do is check the date at the bottom of the coin. If your date says 31st January 2020, then this is just the regular common version worth 50p. But if you are super lucky and find one with a date other than 2020, such as this one from October 2019, then you have just found a super rare error coin, and yes it has been known to sell for £40,000.'
How to Identify the Rare Coin
The rare coins feature the same design as the standard Brexit 50p, including the inscription 'Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations,' but the date at the bottom differs. Collectors should look for any date other than 2020. The coin is considered a 'coin with three dates' because three different dates were used during production: 29 March 2019, 31 October 2019, and 31 January 2020.
When the TikTok video was posted, it garnered considerable attention. One commenter stated: 'I've got six of these coins.' Another enthused: 'I've got one!'
How to Value and Verify Rare UK Coins
Spotting a rare coin requires examining its date, mint marks, physical condition, and distinctive errors. AI-powered smartphones can be used to photograph a coin and instantly retrieve identification alongside estimated values. Typically, lower mintage figures suggest a 'key date' and greater worth. Double dies, absent mint marks, or incorrect dates can render coins extraordinarily scarce.
Coins can be authenticated by specialists, such as Change Checker, or auction houses. To gain an understanding of what buyers are prepared to spend, collectors can examine completed sales listings on eBay.
