Rare 5p Coin Fetches 100 Times Its Value Thanks to Minting Error 'Blob'
A so-called 'rare' 5p coin has been sold for an astonishing 100 times its original face value, all thanks to a peculiar 'blob' that was minted onto it during production. The coin, which dates from 2012, features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse side and the distinctive Royal Shield design on the reverse.
The Unusual Minting Error That Skyrocketed Value
This particular penny was listed on eBay with a buy-it-now price of £5, plus an additional £1 for postage. It eventually sold for the full £6 on Sunday, March 22. The seller attributed the coin's increased value to a small extra bit of metal present on the shield design, which they believe resulted from a cracked die being used in the minting process.
The item listing described it as 'A Circulated, British, 2012, Elizabeth II, Minting Error, 5p Coin.' It further explained: 'The error is a small globule of metal on the reverse which I believe is the result of a cracked die being used. The coin is in circulated condition, as can be seen from the photographs.'
This minting flaw transformed what would otherwise be a standard circulated coin into an unusual find that captivated collectors, leading to its value skyrocketing well beyond its nominal worth.
Background on the Royal Shield Coin Design
The 5p coin featuring Matthew Dent's Royal Shield of Arms design was first introduced into UK circulation back in 2008. This iconic design also appears on other British coins up to the value of 50p. Interestingly, when all denominations from 1p to 50p are united and carefully arranged in the correct order, they collectively form the complete Royal Arms in their entirety.
While this particular discovery might prompt Britons to curiously rummage through their wallets in search of similar treasures, there are other coins worth keeping a vigilant eye out for in everyday change.
The Final and Rarest Queen Elizabeth II £1 Coins
Among the most sought-after coins currently entering circulation are the final and rarest batch of Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins, which were actually minted in the year of her death. These entered circulation across the United Kingdom in 2025, marking a significant historical moment.
More than 23 million of these Queen coins were released into circulation alongside approximately 7.5 million new King Charles III £1 coins. According to The Royal Mint, the last Elizabeth II coins, dated 2022, now represent the rarest £1 coins actively circulating in the UK today.
This dual release of nearly 31 million coins signifies a pivotal moment for British coinage, as the nation witnesses the tangible changeover from Britain's longest-reigning monarch to her son and successor. The Queen's £1 coins will be the very last ones bearing Elizabeth II's portrait to ever enter general circulation.
Royal Mint Encourages Public to Check Their Change
The Royal Mint is actively encouraging the public to check their change meticulously over the coming weeks and months, as these new coins begin appearing in pockets and tills nationwide. Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at The Royal Mint, commented on this historic release.
'This release represents a pivotal moment in British coinage history,' Ms Morgan stated. 'As we release more of the King Charles III £1 coins into circulation alongside the final coins of Queen Elizabeth II, we're witnessing the physical representation of our monarchy's transition. This dual release creates an exceptional opportunity for both seasoned numismatists and those new to coin collecting.'
She added: 'Finding these new coins in your change could spark a rewarding hobby that connects you with the heritage, history and craftsmanship behind British currency.'
Current Status of King Charles III Coinage
Since the introduction of the King's effigy on UK coinage in 2023, the 50p and £1 denominations are the only ones featuring Charles's portrait to have entered circulation thus far. The King's £1 coins boast an intricate bee design on the reverse and form part of the Definitive collection, which draws inspiration from the flora and fauna of the British Isles.
Approximately 2.975 million £1 coins bearing the King's effigy were released in August 2024. In total, there are around 24.7 billion coins currently in circulation across the UK. The King's new coins represent only about 0.004 per cent of this vast total, making them highly desirable and sought-after items for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
It is important to note that all UK coins bearing the Queen's portrait will remain legal tender and in active circulation. This policy allows for a smooth transition between monarchs while simultaneously minimising environmental impact and associated costs for the nation.
