Collectors Alert: 2009 50p Coin Could Be Worth Over £200
Brits are being urged to check their pockets and piggy banks for a highly sought-after 50p coin from 2009 that could be worth more than £200 to collectors. According to an expert, this rare piece has sold for as much as £257 in the past, representing a staggering increase of over 500 times its face value.
Olympic Commemoration with a Unique Twist
The coin in question was minted to commemorate the 2012 London Olympics and features a design of a high-jumping athlete. What makes this coin particularly special is its origin: the design was created by a child as part of a Blue Peter competition, adding a personal and nostalgic element that enhances its appeal to collectors.
However, the key to its value lies in the date. Only coins dated 2009 hold substantial worth, while the same design from 2011 is far more common and therefore not as valuable. The 2009 version is much rarer, making it a prized find for numismatists.
Expert Insights on the Coin's Rarity
In a recent TikTok video, an expert known as the Coin Collecting Wizard highlighted the dramatic difference in value. "This coin is worth 50p but this coin is worth £200," he explained, emphasizing the importance of checking the date. The coin is often referred to as the Athletics 50p, and its connection to the classic children's television show Blue Peter adds a unique historical and emotional stake for many collectors.
The rare 2009 coin features an athlete design drawn by a young viewer, but it wasn't officially minted and distributed until 2011. Approximately 2.2 million coins were released in 2011, flooding circulation, but the earlier 2009 version is much scarcer and thus commands a premium price.
Packaging and Provenance Boost Value
According to the expert, the most valuable version of this coin is one that comes in its original commemorative Blue Peter packaging. This packaging includes images of presenters from the hit show, which can significantly increase its desirability and market price. "It helps when it comes with its original packaging," the expert noted, citing the £257 eBay sale as evidence of its high demand.
On its website, the Britannia Coin Company provided additional context, revealing that the design was selected from 17,000 entries in a Blue Peter competition. Nine-year-old Florence Jackson won the competition, making her the first child to design a UK coin for The Royal Mint. The reverse of the coin displays Jackson's high jumper design, along with the 2012 Summer Olympics logo and the denomination.
Collectors are keen to acquire this piece of history, but they must remember to verify the date carefully. While the 2009 version can fetch hundreds of pounds, the 2011 version is typically worth only its face value or slightly more to enthusiasts. This makes it a thrilling hunt for those hoping to strike it rich with a simple coin check.
