Experts share why 50p coins made in 2008 are worth more

Tiny error on 50p coin 'most people wouldn't spot' means it's worth £3,766
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Coin enthusiasts have been given a heads up about a rare 50p piece that could be worth a small fortune, as it's fetching around 20 times its face value on eBay. Collectors are keen to snap up the 2008-dated coins which feature the iconic Britannia design with only 3,500,000 of these coins released into circulation, they're now highly coveted items.

This particular year was the last time the Britannia image graced the 50p before the Royal Shield design took over. Some lucky sellers have managed to cash in their unique 2008 50p coins for as much as £9.99 each.

But it's not just this coin that's causing a stir; another 50p with an unusual "Lines Over The Face" Aquatics design has gone under the hammer for an eye-watering £1,500. These error coins, like the Lord Kitchener £2 and the 1983 "New Pence", are incredibly valuable due to their manufacturing mishaps.

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RWB, a Wiltshire-based auction house, recently sold one of these error coins for the hefty sum. Coin expert Kimberly Day from RWB commented on the rarity, saying: "Only a few hundred examples with this rare design variation are believed to have been released.

"We're delighted that this coin has raised such a sum, it's a fair price for such a rare coin and we believe its value will only increase over time."

The customary Aquatics 50p piece was released by the Royal Mint in 2011 as part of a series celebrating the 2012 London Olympics, featuring 29 unique designs for various sports.

Due to its rarity, this error coin has fetched enormous amounts at auction - like the recent sale at RWB - with previous instances where it has sold for up to £1,600.