In 1968, Ireland still used the pre-decimal currency system, where the Irish pound (£) was divided into 20 shillings, and each shilling was worth 12 pence . Therefore, the 1968 Irish coins you might encounter include:
- Penny (1d): This coin featured a hen and chicks on the reverse and a harp on the obverse. Its value as a collector’s item can range from a few dollars for circulated examples to potentially higher amounts (e.g., $15-$85 according to [some eBay listings] ). NGC-certified coins with specific labels (like “Lucky Irish Penny” or “Brilliant Uncirculated Clover Label”) tend to fetch higher prices. Uncirculated sets containing the 1968 penny are also available.
- Other Denominations: While the penny is the most frequently mentioned 1968 Irish coin, Ireland also issued other pre-decimal coins in 1968, including the threepence (3d) with a hare design, sixpence (6d) featuring a wolfhound, shilling (1s) depicting a bull, and florin (2s) showcasing a salmon. Values for these coins would vary based on condition, rarity, and any special features.
The value of any 1968 Irish coin depends on several factors:
- Condition: Coins in better condition (uncirculated, proof) are typically more valuable than circulated ones.
- Rarity: Some coin varieties or mint errors can be rarer and thus more valuable.
- Grading and Certification: Professional grading and encapsulation by services like NGC can add to a coin’s perceived authenticity and value.
- Collector Demand: Current demand among collectors influences pricing.
To accurately determine the value of a specific 1968 Irish coin, consulting a reputable coin dealer or referencing up-to-date coin price guides is recommended. You could also explore auction results on platforms like eBay, keeping in mind that actual sale prices can vary based on individual listings and auction dynamics.
Is a 1968 coin worth anything?
From my experience, Almost all high-grade 1968 cents trace back to 1968 Mint Sets, which contained coins from all three mints plus a 40% silver Kennedy half dollar. These sets remain available on the secondary market for under $15.
What does “eire” on a coin mean?
The Government of Ireland decided on a single national design for all Irish coin denominations. They show the Celtic harp, a traditional symbol of Ireland, decorated with the year of issue and the inscription “Éire” − the Irish word for Ireland.
Which Irish coins are valuable?
Number 20: 1935 6 Pence/ 1933 3 Pence/ 1933 Half Penny.
Number 19: 1931 Shilling.
Number 18: 1933 Shilling.
Number 17: 1940 Penny.
Number 16: 1933 Half Crown.
Number 15: 1930 Florin (2 Shilling)
Number 14: 1930 Half Crown.
Number 13: 1930 Shilling.
What old Irish coins are silver?
The shilling, florin and halfcrown were struck in . 750 silver alloyed with . 250 copper and at the same weight as the circulating English coins which were of debased (50%) silver. The earlier English sterling silver (925/1000) silver coins were still in circulation and remained so until the 1960’s.