If you’ve recently traveled to Ireland or know someone who has, it might be time to check your pockets or coin jars for a rare 20p coin. Although no longer in circulation, this particular coin, issued in the 1980s, could be worth an astonishing £12,000 today—if you happen to have one. Here’s everything you need to know about this rare find.
The History Behind the Rare 20p Coin
In 1986, the Republic of Ireland introduced a new 20p coin to replace its old currency system before the country switched to the Euro in 2002. This coin was part of the Irish currency’s modernisation effort as the nation gradually phased out the Irish punt (the country’s pre-Euro currency).
Interestingly, while the 20p coin was designed to be a regular issue, around 500 of these coins were distributed to businesses in 1985 to help recalibrate vending machines and phone boxes. These early 20p coins were intended to be returned, but estimates suggest that approximately 50 of them may have never made it back.
Why Is This 20p Coin So Valuable?
The rare 1985 Irish 20p coin became highly sought after due to its limited number and its connection to a pivotal moment in Irish history. These coins were only in circulation for a very short time, making them an elusive find today.
Coin expert and collector Brendan Jones (@irishsilverstack on TikTok) recently shared that a single one of these coins could be worth up to €15,000 (roughly £12,000). According to Jones, if you have one of these rare coins with the “1985” stamp on it, you could be sitting on a small fortune.
How to Identify the Rare 1985 Irish 20p Coin
To determine if your coin is one of the rare 1985 Irish 20p pieces, you’ll need to closely examine its obverse (the heads side). The distinguishing feature is the year “1985” clearly marked on the coin. While the coins were supposed to be recalled, only a handful remain in private hands, making it a highly coveted item for numismatists and collectors alike.
If you spot a 1985 coin, it could be worth far more than its face value. It’s recommended to check the condition of the coin as well—coins in better condition typically fetch higher prices.
What Other Rare Coins Should You Look For?
The 1985 Irish 20p is just one example of a rare coin that could be worth a significant amount of money. Throughout history, printing errors, unique designs, and limited releases have made certain coins incredibly valuable. Other coins to watch for include:
- Error Coins: Coins with printing mistakes, like the 2014 £2 coin featuring Lord Kitchener, can be worth hundreds of pounds. Only around 800 of these coins with a misprint exist.
- Special Edition Coins: Coins issued to commemorate historical events or anniversaries often have a higher value. For example, certain rare £1 and £2 coins can fetch thousands at auction if they have unique features or limited releases.
- Old 1p and 2p Coins: While not often considered high-value, certain old pennies or twopenny coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands if they have unique characteristics.
The Growing Trend of Coin Collecting
Coin collecting, also known as numismatics, has seen a significant rise in interest in recent years. Whether you’re an avid collector or just someone with a passing interest, rare coins can be a valuable asset. Social media platforms like TikTok, with experts like @irishsilverstack, have helped bring attention to valuable coins, sparking a wave of interest in the hobby.
If you’re looking to start your own collection or check your current stash for hidden treasures, the internet is full of resources to help you identify valuable coins. Keep an eye on news and auction trends, as rare coin prices can fluctuate significantly depending on demand.
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A Hidden Treasure in Your Pocket
The rare 1985 Irish 20p coin is a perfect example of how everyday change can sometimes hold unexpected value. If you have one of these coins lying around from a trip to Ireland, you could be in for a pleasant surprise, with the potential to make over £12,000 from a coin that most people would overlook. So, take a moment to check your change—whether it’s from your recent travels, your family’s spare change jar, or even hidden in a drawer from years ago.
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