Brits told to look for rare 20p coin considered collector's 'holy grail' due to error
A coin expert has issued a warning to Brits to rummage through their wallets and coin jars for a seemingly ordinary 20p piece that could fetch up to £80. This coin, while appearing standard at first glance, is marked by an error that has made it a sought-after collector's item across the UK, earning it the nickname "holy grail" of coins.
Only a limited number of these were minted in 2008, meaning you might stumble upon one in your everyday change. The Coin Collecting Wizard shared insights on TikTok, stating: "Your shield 20 pence coin could be worth £50."
He also referenced recent sales of the coin on eBay where it has been bought for around £80. However, the expert emphasised that they're valuable only if they bear a unique error – being undated.
READ MORE: New Motability Scheme update for people on PIP, ADP and other disability benefits
READ MORE: Older people on Attendance Allowance, PIP, DLA or ADP may be due an extra £331 from April
He further explained: "It's all to do with a die mix-up at the Royal Mint, causing the coin to have no date." According to the collector, fewer than a quarter of a million of these specific coins were produced out of over 136 million minted in 2008, due to an older heads side design accidentally being paired with a brand-new tails side design, resulting in the date being completely omitted.
As reported by The Mirror, the coin enthusiast highlighted just how coveted these rarities are, explaining, "Considered by many as one of the holy grails of UK change collecting, the undated 20p is always at the top of any coin collector's wish list. The Royal Mint has confirmed this is the first time in over 300 years that a coin had entered circulation without a date making it extremely sought after by coin collectors."
He highlighted that sellers on eBay had been able to command prices as high as £79.99 for the coin, with some transactions occurring closer to £50. He added: "As you can see from these eBay sold prices, the undated 20p is an easy sell for around £50, so always make sure to check those 20p coins."
The Royal Mint offered insights into this peculiar phenomenon, stating: "In November 2008 a number of 20p coins were incorrectly minted, resulting in the coins being undated. These coins remain legal tender and still have a face value of 20p."
It was observed that, at the time the article went to press, some eBay listings priced these unique undated 20p pieces at lofty figures such as £150 and £125.
