An eBay listing in County Durham has caught the attention of coin collectors and curious shoppers alike, after an ‘extremely rare’ 50p coin commemorating King Charles III’s ascension to the throne has been put up for sale for more than £2,000.

The 2022-minted 50p is ‘rare’ as it was made in the three months following Elizabeth II’s death, which saw the beginning of the reign of Charles III amid a period of national mourning.

A listing on eBay has the coin offered at a bidding price of £2,046.68, or a ‘buy now’ price of £3,066.68.

While many of the coins can be found in circulation, uncirculated or error versions often attract premium prices online.

The listing can be found on eBay here.

Despite that, few coins actually sell for the thousands sometimes advertised. Online platforms like eBay are often flooded with similar listings, some genuine and others speculative.

The coin is ‘extremely rare’. (Image: eBay)

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“It’s the equivalent of a digital treasure hunt,” said one Durham-based coin enthusiast.

“But buyers should be wary of hype and focus on condition, rarity, and verified value.

Speaking about other valuable 50p coins, a spokesperson from the Royal Mint said: “Prospective buyers should always research current market trends. Listings at inflated prices don’t necessarily reflect real-world sales.”

What makes a coin valuable?

The 50 pence piece has become the most valued and collected coin in the UK, with many collectable designs appearing on its heptagonal canvas.

Its 27.5mm diameter makes it the largest of any British coin, and allows space for decorative pictures. It has often been used to celebrate big events over the past 50 years of British history.

Royal Mint top 10 most valuable 50p coins

Here is a list of the top 10 most valuable coins, when they were made, and how many were minted:

  1. Atlantic Salmon (2023), 200,000

  2. Kew Gardens (2009), 210,000

  3. Olympic Wrestling (2011), 1,129,500

  4. Olympic Football (2011), 1,161,500

  5. Olympic Judo (2011), 1,161,500

  6. Olympic Triathlon (2011), 1,163,500

  7. Peter Rabbit (2018), 1,400,000

  8. Flopsy Bunny (2018), 1,400,000

  9. Olympic Tennis (2011), 1,454,000

  10. Olympic Goalball (2011), 1,615,500