A Reddit user has drawn attention to a subtle security feature on the 12-sided £1 coin: the words 'ONE POUND' inscribed in minuscule text along the coin's edge. The post, featuring close-up images, sparked fascination among users who were unaware of the detail despite the coin being in circulation since 2017.
The 12-Sided £1 Coin's Security Features
The current £1 coin, introduced on March 28, 2017, replaced the round £1 coin that had been in use since 1983. The Royal Mint designed the dodecagonal coin with multiple anti-counterfeiting measures. These include a bimetallic construction (a gold-coloured nickel-brass outer ring and a silver-coloured nickel-plated inner ring), a hologram-like image that alternates between a £ symbol and the number 1 when tilted, and microtext on both sides. The 'heads' side features 'ONE POUND' in tiny lettering near the edge, while the 'tails' side includes the year of production in similar microtext. Additionally, the Royal Mint has incorporated a secret security feature that has not been publicly disclosed, claiming the coin is the 'most secure coin in the world.'
Counterfeit Concerns Prompted Redesign
The round £1 coin was replaced due to widespread counterfeiting. According to the Royal Mint, approximately one in 30 round £1 coins in circulation (about 3%) was counterfeit, representing an estimated £30 million in fraudulent currency. The new design aimed to reduce these costs for businesses and taxpayers. The legal tender status of the round £1 coin was withdrawn on October 15, 2017, after which shops and banks ceased accepting them, though they could still be donated or exchanged at banks.
Reddit Discussion Highlights Public Awareness
One Reddit user explained that the microtext is part of the coin's 'filigree,' a decorative element historically used to prevent fraud. In earlier times, when coins were made of precious metals, people would shave off small amounts from the edges, a practice known as 'clipping.' Filigree patterns made such tampering obvious. Another user noted additional details, such as the date in microtext on the reverse side and a known error on some 2016 coins where the microtext reads '2017' instead of '2016.' Some commenters expressed nostalgia for the round pound, while others joked about the coin's resemblance to chocolate coins. The post highlights how even everyday objects contain intricate security features that often go unnoticed.
