Many British £2 coins are worth more than their face value to collectors. Several factors determine their value, including:
- Rarity (Mintage Figures): Coins with lower mintage figures (fewer produced) tend to be more valuable.
- Condition: Coins in better condition (Brilliant Uncirculated, or BU) are generally worth more than circulated coins.
- Errors or Variations: Coins with minting errors or unique variations can be highly sought after by collectors.
- Design and Historical Significance: Certain commemorative designs or coins with historical significance may also attract higher prices.
Here’s a breakdown of some notable £2 coins and their approximate values:
- Northern Ireland: This is considered the rarest £2 coin in circulation, with a mintage of 485,500. Circulated coins can sell for £40-£50, with one example selling for £79 on eBay in February 2024.
- England: Mintage of 650,500. Circulated coins have sold for £18 on eBay, with an average price of £12.
- Wales: Mintage of 588,500. Circulated coins have sold for up to £17 on eBay.
- Scotland: Mintage of 771,750. Circulated coins can sell for £9-£15 on eBay, with some reaching £28.
- 2012 Olympic Games London to Rio Handover: Mintage of 845,000. Circulated coins sell for £5-£12.
- 2008 Olympic Games Beijing to London Handover: Mintage of 918,000. Circulated coins typically sell for £5-£7, with some reaching £14.
- 2008 Olympic Centenary: Mintage of 910,000. Circulated coins sell for £5-£8.
- 2011 King James Bible: Mintage of 975,000. Circulated coins sell for £6-£8, with some reaching £12.
- 2011 Mary Rose: Mintage of 1,040,000. Circulated coins sell for £7-£9.
- 2015 First World War – Navy: Mintage of 650,000. Circulated coins sell for £4-£6.
- 2016 Great Fire of London: Mintage of 1,625,000. Circulated coins sell for £4-£6.
- 2016 Britannia (Antony Dufort design): Mintage of 650,000. Circulated coins sell for £5-£7.
- Fried Egg Error: This occurs when the inner metal spills out into the outer part. A regular £2 coin with this error can sell for £45-£90. Commemorative coins with this error can be even more valuable, [with a Mayflower error selling for £600].
- Check Mintage Figures: Websites like [Coin Hunter] and [The Royal Mint] provide information on £2 coin designs and their mintage figures. Generally, lower mintage figures indicate higher value.
- Look for Errors: Examine the coin carefully for any unusual features, such as rotated heads or missing sections in the design or edge inscription. While some variations in edge inscription orientation are normal, significant misalignments can indicate a valuable error.
- Research Online: Check recent sale prices on platforms like eBay to get an idea of the coin’s current market value.
- Consult a Coin Appraiser: For accurate valuations, especially for potentially valuable or rare coins, consider seeking the opinion of a professional coin appraiser.
Note: The value of coins can fluctuate based on demand and other market factors. The values listed above are approximate and based on recent sales data. It’s important to do your own research and consult with experts if you have a potentially valuable coin.
Is my 1986 2 pound coin worth anything?
Good point! Mintage for the 2 pound design struck dated 1986 is recorded as 8,212,184 coins. An Uncirculated condition Elizabeth II 1986 £2 Commonwealth Games is worth about £3.
Is a 2 pound coin still valid?
Good point! They are legal tender but contrary to popular belief this does not mean that banks and retailers automatically have to accept them.