Coin collectors and enthusiasts across Australia are on the lookout for a rare 20 cent coin from 1971 that could fetch up to $80 – a massive increase from its face value of just 20 cents. The coin’s rarity, condition, and historical significance make it highly sought after by collectors, who are eager to add it to their collections. But what makes this coin so special?
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The 1971 20 cent coin is one of the hardest-to-find and most valuable coins from Australia’s mint history. With only 8.9 million of these coins ever produced, it falls into what collectors consider the “scarce range”. According to Michael McCauley, a Victorian coin expert, a coin in perfect condition can be worth as much as $80. McCauley explains in a TikTok video that the number of these coins in circulation is low, making them a rare find and boosting their value for those who hold onto them.
Why Is the 1971 20 Cent Coin So Valuable?
Though the 1971 20 cent coin may seem like an ordinary piece of currency, its rarity and condition make it much more valuable than most coins. The Royal Australian Mint only minted 8.9 million of these coins, a number that might sound significant, but in the world of coin collecting, it is actually quite rare.
As McCauley puts it, any coin minted between 5 million and 10 million falls into the “scarce range”, making it highly coveted by collectors. While there are still millions of these coins in circulation, the odds of finding one in excellent condition are slim, increasing its desirability and value.
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What Affects the Value of a 1971 20 Cent Coin?
The value of the 1971 20 cent coin can vary based on its condition and how much it has been circulated. A coin in perfect condition, free from scratches, fading, or wear, can fetch a premium price – as much as $80.
However, coins in less-than-perfect condition can still be worth something, depending on their rarity. McCauley suggests that coins in fairly circulated condition are still valuable to collectors, though they may only be worth a few dollars.
For McCauley, the coin he owns is not worth as much because it’s not in perfect condition – a detail he highlights in his video. The coin he has features the number ‘1’ in 1971 partly missing, which reduces its value compared to one in pristine condition.
Other Rare 20 Cent Coins You Should Keep an Eye Out For
While the 1971 coin is undoubtedly a rare find, it’s not the only 20 cent coin with significant value. Another rare coin that collectors are hunting for is the 1966 “wavy baseline” 20 cent coin. This coin can be worth between $3,000 and $5,000 when in perfect condition.
The unique feature of the 1966 coin is the wavy baseline on the number ‘2’ of the coin. In a standard 20 cent coin, the bottom of the ‘2’ is straight, but in the wavy baseline version, there is an obvious curve along the upper edge of the number. This error in the minting process has caused the 1966 coin to become highly valuable among collectors.
How to Spot Valuable 20 Cent Coins
If you’re a coin collector or someone who enjoys searching through loose change, knowing what to look for can help you uncover some rare and valuable coins. Here are some tips on spotting rare 20 cent coins:
- Look for coins from specific years: Coins from years like 1971 and 1966 are particularly valuable.
- Check for minting errors: Coins with misprints, like the wavy baseline on the 1966 coin, are worth more.
- Examine the condition: Well-preserved Coins, without scratches or wear, are more likely to be valuable.
- Understand mintage numbers: The lower the mintage, the rarer the coin, and the more valuable it is.
Should You Keep the 1971 20 Cent Coin?
For those with a keen interest in coin collecting, the 1971 20 cent coin is definitely worth holding onto if you find one in good condition. While it may not make you rich overnight, the $80 potential for a coin in perfect condition makes it a valuable piece to add to your collection.
As with any rare collectible, the condition and uniqueness of the coin will determine its ultimate value. So, whether you find it in your pocket change or through careful searching, the 1971 20 cent coin is a great example of how a small piece of history can be worth far more than its face value.
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