The coin was only released in 2023
A coin expert is urging people to look out for a 50p piece he claims is the UK’s “rarest coin”. The money piece could be worth more than £100 to collectors, he said, and could be found in your loose change.
The coin, which was only released in 2023, features an image of King Charles III on one side and an Atlantic salmon on the other. A coin collector known as the Coin Seeker on TikTok explained all to his many followers in a recent video.
He advised people to “check your change”, adding: “The rarest coin in the UK. This is the 2023 King Charles salmon and this is in immaculate condition.” What makes this coin so special is the fact that there were very few minted in the first place.
The expert added: “This is one of 200,000, and this has come straight from a sealed bag. Look at it. Absolutely insane. They sell for over £100 with only 200,000 minted.
“You could still possibly find one of these in your change. So make sure you check your change in case you find one of these bad boys.”
The Royal Mint website confirms that the salmon coin is currently the rarest 50p in circulation, knocking the 2009 Kew Gardens coin off the top spot. Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, said: “The releasing of mintage figures is an eagerly anticipated event among the coin collecting community – and this year is particularly exciting as we reveal the Atlantic Salmon as the rarest 50p in circulation.”
She added: “For the first time in 15 years, the highly collectable Kew Gardens 50p loses its top spot as the rarest in circulation with the Atlantic Salmon 50p splashing its way to number one.
“2023 marked pivotal changes for the nation’s coinage, including the introduction of coins celebrating King Charles III’s coronation entering circulation. Finding these special designs, like the Atlantic Salmon, in your change is a win for all collectors.”
On December 30, it was reported that three Atlantic salmon coins fetched varying amounts on eBay, selling for £102, £110.79, and £98.99 respectively.
