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Expert shares how to find 'one of the rarest' UK coins worth 1,000

The highly-sought after two pence piece, which is still legal tender, could be worth as much as 1,000 to collectors - but only if it has a minting error

[Two-pence coins lie on the glass on top of a 2p nudger machine in a seaside amusement arcade.]

An expert explained that a specific 2p coin with an error could be worth as much as 1,000(Image: Getty)

A coin specialist has advised Britons to watch out for "one of the rarest" UK coins ever minted. This exceptionally sought-after two pence piece could fetch up to 1,000 among collectors.

The coin remains legal tender having been struck in 1983. Nevertheless, it must display a particular mistake to be exceptionally valuable.

As reported by The Mirror, the minting fault can be spotted on the coin's reverse side (tails) if it carries the wording "new pence" rather than the usual "two pence". This terminology was standard following decimalisation but was supposed to have been altered in 1982.

In a clip posted to social media platform TikTok, a specialist known as the Coin Collecting Wizard provided further details. He explained: "The 1983 'new pence' 2p coin is one of the rarest decimal coins ever struck, worth over 1,000 to collectors.

"In 1983 the Royal Mint had already changed the reverse legend [words written on a coin] from 'new pence' to 'two pence' back in 1982. However, a small number of 2p coins dated 1983 were accidentally struck with the old 'new pence' inscription."

He cautioned that these coins will only be in circulation if someone opened a special collector set. He added: "These coins were not issued for general circulation and are believed to have been included only in a few special collector set making them extremely scarce.

"If you find one with the date 1983 and the words 'new pence' rather than 'two pence' you may be holding a coin worth a four figure sum. Just don't forget that it is only the year 1983 and it must say' new pence' instead of 'two pence'.

[2p]

Instead of the words 'two pence' the valuable coin will read 'new pence'(Image: Getty)

"If you follow these simple rules it will help. Good luck you're going to need it." According to the Royal Mint's website : "In 1983 a small number of 2p coins were mistakenly struck with the wording 'new pence' on the reverse."

These particular coins were manufactured to brilliant uncirculated quality - a grade superior to standard circulating coins - and were incorporated into special collections designed for enthusiasts. H said: "Since there are relatively few coins with the date 1983 and the inscription 'new pence' in circulation, they may well have a value higher than face value to a collector.

"The Royal Mint is, however, unable to comment on the value of any individual coin and we would recommend that you should consult a coin dealer."

At the time of reporting, an example of the 1983 new pence coin could be found on eBay for 998.58, and another for 2,499.

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