£2 Rare coin may be worth a hefty sum – it marks a special British occasion
Specialists have drawn attention to the unusual coin, which was minted 13 years ago
If you've got a collection of spare change gathering dust at home, it might be worth giving it a second glance. Coin experts have highlighted a unique British coin that could potentially fetch a tidy sum.
The distinctive gold £2 coin isn't exactly ancient, having been minted a mere 13 years ago in 2012. However, its historical significance is what makes it so special, commemorating a global event centred around London.
"Struck to commemorate the transition of the Olympic Games from London to Rio de Janeiro, the 2012 Olympic Games Handover £2 coin symbolises the passing of the Olympic flag from one host city to another," the Royal Mint explains. "The reverse design, created by Jonathan Olliffe, depicts a baton being passed between two hands, with the flags of the UK and Brazil joined in motion.
"Like its predecessor, the coin carries the edge inscription 'I CALL UPON THE YOUTH OF THE WORLD'." In 2012, London became the first city to host the Olympic Games thrice, having previously done so in 1908 and 1948.
READ MORE: Love Island Gabby Allen opens up on 'destroying' time of confidence after family loss
The games saw more than 10,000 athletes vying for glory across 26 sports at the newly built Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. When the time came to 'handover' the games to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a limited run of just 1,200 gold £2 coins were minted to mark the occasion, as per MJ Hughes Coins.
This is partly why they are considered so valuable, with coin traders at Bullion By Post and Chards listing gold editions at £1,558 and £1,478, respectively. "The 2012 Olympic Handover to Rio £2 coin was issued to mark the handover from London to the next Olympic Games host, Rio de Janeiro," Chards writes in regards to the '2012 UK Coin £2 Gold Proof Olympic Handover to Rio'.
"The 2012 Olympic Handover £2 coin was also produced in the following finishes: uncirculated, brilliant uncirculated in a presentation folder, silver proof and silver proof piedfort." Despite these impressive valuations, it's important to remember that a coin's value is significantly affected by its condition.
Chris Yang, Co-founder of Coins Value, previously told the Daily Star: "Coins in perfect 'mint' condition are worth far more than their well-worn, damaged, and poor-condition counterparts. Sometimes a minor difference in grade translates to hundreds, maybe thousands in value."
In addition to this, he advised that it is 'best practice' to retain rare coins, unless there is an immediate need for cash. "The better issues of these important coins gain in value over time," he continued. "The prices of these scarce coins are subject to some uncertainty based on alterations in the overall market and economy.
"When selling, shop around various dealers and obtain the best price. An auction house is considered to achieve the maximum value for really spectacular pieces. Be prepared to pay a 10-20% commission on the selling price.
"…Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn't always about striking gold; it's about connecting with history and uncovering hidden treasures. Your old coin jar might hold more than just spare change – it could be a portal to a fascinating past."
