Coin collecting in County Durham is big business, with people reportedly selling their collections for massive profits and huge price tags online. 

While there are no specific 20p,50p, £1, or £2 coins connected to the region, residents of County Durham, like collectors across the UK, may find rare 50p coins in their change or through coin-collecting networks.

At the minute, it seems that eBay, Facebook Marketplace and other online selling sites have seen a large increase and influx of people trying to sell coins, we have pieced together this guide for people who have rare 50p coins in County Durham.

Rare 50p coin price as they sell online for £15k:

Here are some of the rarest and most sought-after 50p coins that you might come across:

  • 2009 Kew Gardens 50p: This is considered the rarest circulating 50p coin, with only 210,000 minted. It features the iconic pagoda from the Kew Gardens in London.
  • Olympic 50p Coins (2011): To commemorate the 2012 London Olympics, the Royal Mint released a series of 29 different designs, each representing a different Olympic sport. Some of these coins, like the Wrestling, Football, and Judo designs, are rarer than others.
  • 2018 and 2019 Paddington Bear 50p Coins: Featuring Paddington Bear at various London landmarks, these coins are popular among collectors.
  • Beatrix Potter 50p Series: Starting in 2016, the Royal Mint issued coins featuring characters like Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and others. Some editions have lower mintage figures, making them more valuable.
  • 2017 Sir Isaac Newton 50p: Celebrating the famous physicist, this coin has a relatively low mintage and is sought after by collectors.

 

The most valuable 50p coins, according to the Royal Mint:

  • Atlantic Salmon 2023
  • Kew Gardens 2009
  • Olympic Football 2011
  • Olympic Wrestling 2011
  • Olympic Judo 2011
  • Olympic Triathlon 2011
  • Peter Rabbit™ 2018
  • Flopsy Bunny™ 2018
  • Olympic Tennis 2011
  • Olympic Goalball 2011

What makes a coin valuable?

The 50 pence piece has become the most valued and collected coin in the UK, with many collectable designs appearing on its heptagonal canvas.

Its 27.5mm diameter makes it the largest of any British coin and allows space for decorative pictures. It has often been used to celebrate big events over the past 50 years of British history.

The rarest coins tend to be of the greatest value, with the mintage (number of coins with each design made) being the fundamental attraction for collectors.

Along with the design, other aspects of the coin which increase value are the condition of the coin and whether it has an error in its design.

If you're in County Durham and interested in collecting or finding rare 50p coins:

  • Check Your Change: Always look closely at the 50p coins you receive in change, as rare coins can occasionally be found in circulation.
  • Visit Local Coin Dealers and Markets: Local antique shops, coin dealers, and markets may have rare coins available for purchase.
  • Join a Numismatic Society: Consider joining a local coin collecting club or the British Numismatic Society to connect with other collectors and stay informed about coin-related events in the area.
  • Attend Coin Fairs and Exhibitions: Keep an eye out for coin fairs or exhibitions happening in or near County Durham, where you can buy, sell, or trade coins.

How much are the coins worth?

The items, which are listed on eBay and Facebook Marketplace by County Durham sellers, are priced between £5,000 and £15,000 - prompting a frenzy of people wanting to cash in on their rare coins. 

In a bid to try and sell their coins, people in County Durham have been chancing their luck and successfully selling coins for over £10,000.

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These coins include Brexit, Beatrix Potter, and uncrowned King Charles III coins. 

However, it's worth pointing out at this point that a coin, like a lot of things, is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it and not every coin is going to be sold at that high price. 

Warnings over 50p coins

While the 50p coins are listed by sellers from County Durham at between £5000 and £15,000, not all coins will go for that - and it will depend on demand, other coins available at that time, and the desirability of the coins. 

It's also worth noting that people should always be cautious of counterfeit coins. When purchasing rare coins, it's advisable to obtain a certificate of authenticity or buy from reputable dealers.