An expert explained how to spot these specific coins that could “make you rich”
Brits have been encouraged to rummage through their spare coins for three coveted festive-themed pieces that could potentially “make you rich”. According to one expert, this trio of coins might collectively command upwards of £8,000.
A numismatic enthusiast, known online as the Coin Collecting Wizard, revealed which specimens to look for. ” Christmas coins that will make you rich,” he said in a video on TikTok.
He first drew attention to a particular 50p piece originating from Gibraltar that has a rare production mistake. Although stamped with the date 1990, it incorrectly displays the design from the previous year’s release.
While coins from Gibraltar are not recognised as valid currency within the UK, such pieces often find their way into British pockets due to their similar appearances. This error coin could sell for up to £4,000.
The specialist elaborated: “This is a 50p from Gibraltar and is known as a mule error. The obverse of this coin features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, dated 1990. ” He continued: “This is paired with the incorrect 1989 Gibraltar Christmas design featuring a singing choir boy and a puppy wearing a Santa hat and a bow.
“Errors like this, where a mismatched obverse and reverse die are used, are extremely uncommon today due to advancements in modern minting technology. This coin can sell for up to £4,000 so make sure to check if you have this one.”
Additionally, he recommended keeping an eye out for a 50 pence coin dating back to 2003, which features imagery from The Snowman. The numismatic expert commented: “This sought-after collectible coin is a new addition of a rare Christmas-themed design first issued in 2003 inspired by Raymond Briggs’ the Snowman first published in 1978.”
He explained what makes it desirable, noting that the coin displays an image of the cherished snowman dancing with the young boy James. He said: “The 2003 Snowman and James coin was the first in a popular series, produced in partnership with Popjoy Mint to mark the 25th anniversary of the original storybook.
“And if you have this 50 pence, then you are looking at around £300.” He then delved into the history of historic coins known as wreath crowns, named for their “distinctive reverse design”.
Produced between 1927-1936, these were made “as holiday gifts to important clients of the Bank of England, leading to their other common name, ‘Christmas crowns’. If you have this crown from 1934 then it is worth £4,000.”