Have you ever spotted a coloured $2 coin in your change and wondered if it’s worth more than just its face value? While not all coloured coins are rare, some could fetch you hundreds of dollars—or even more.
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Among the most valuable are the 2012 Red Poppy and 2013 Queen’s Coronation coins, which have become highly sought-after by collectors. If you happen to find one in your wallet, you might be holding onto a hidden treasure.
2012 Red Poppy Coin: Worth Up to $300+
The 2012 Red Poppy $2 coin is considered one of the most valuable coloured circulating coins in Australian history.
💰 Current Value: $200 – $300 (standard issue)
📅 Released for: Remembrance Day
🪙 Mintage: Only 500,000 coins were made
🎖️ Why it’s valuable: First-ever coloured circulating coin by the Royal Australian Mint, issued through the RSL Red Poppy Appeal
According to coin expert Matthew Thompson, director of Thompsons Coins and Collectables, the Red Poppy remains one of the most in-demand coins for collectors.
“It was originally issued for $10 through the RSLs, but now they go for $200 to $300 each,” Thompson told Yahoo Finance.
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2013 Queen’s Coronation Coin: Could Be Worth $500+
The 2013 Queen’s Coronation $2 coin, featuring a purple ring and St Edward’s Crown, was the second coloured coin created by the Royal Australian Mint.
💰 Current Value: $50 – $100 (regular)
💎 Special ‘C Mintmark’ Version: Worth over $500
📅 Released for: 60th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation
🪙 Mintage: 1 million
The C Mintmark version, which includes a small ‘C’ for Canberra, is especially rare and can sell for hundreds of dollars.
“That one is still selling for over $500,” Thompson confirmed.
Not All Coloured Coins Are Valuable—Beware the Hype
While some coloured coins increase in value, others are simply hyped up in the market.
For example, the Australian Open-themed $2 coins released by Australia Post and the Royal Australian Mint briefly skyrocketed in price, with Privy Mark versions selling for up to $155 on eBay.
However, Thompson warns that these may not hold long-term value, as they lack historical significance.
“When you look at the $2 coin market, the ones that really go the distance are things like the Red Poppy Coin, which has that ANZAC war theme, resonating with a broader audience.”
How to Know If Your $2 Coin Is Valuable
🔎 Check for these key factors:
✔️ Low mintage (the fewer coins produced, the rarer they are)
✔️ Special designs (commemorative coins tend to be more valuable)
✔️ Mintmarks (certain mintmarks, like ‘C’ for Canberra, increase value)
✔️ Condition (uncirculated or well-preserved coins are worth more)
Should You Keep Unique Coins?
Even if your coin isn’t worth hundreds now, it could still be valuable in the future.
💡 Thompson encourages people to hold onto interesting coins as a hobby or investment.
“Any coin that’s out of the ordinary is worth holding on to if you’re interested in them. It could even lead to learning about history, like finding a 1996 $1 Henry Parkes coin and discovering the father of Federation.”
Final Thoughts: Could Your Spare Change Be a Goldmine?
If you come across a 2012 Red Poppy or 2013 Queen’s Coronation $2 coin, check its condition and mintmark—you might have a small fortune in your hands!
Do you collect rare coins? Have you ever found a valuable one in your change? Let us know!
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