THE COIN EXPERT: An Expert in Valuable UK Coins

Here at the Coin Expert, we are dedicated to researching British coins.

We research British coins using published references and dated market evidence where available. Our guides explain the factors that can affect a coin’s interest or price, but we do not provide individual valuations or assess coins from photographs.
Browse our guides to research a coin’s date, design, rarity and condition.

A selection of the most popular blog posts on our website

Unveiling the 2023 JRR Tolkien £2 Coin: A Detailed Review

In the world of numismatics, the release of the 2023 J.R.R. Tolkien £2 coin has sparked a renewed appreciation for the literary giant behind such epics as “The Lord of the Rings.” Bearing the iconic Tolkien monogram encircled by runes, this piece is a tribute to the author whose narratives have transcended time, offering a...

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Paddington Bear 50p Coins: Are They Actually Rare?

As an icon across all generations, Paddington Bear has secured his place as one of Britain’s most beloved fictional characters. His charming personality has seen him appear in numerous books, films, and tv shows and so it seemed fitting that he would be recognised on the latest commemorative 50p coins in 2018. Unsurprisingly, the coin...

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British Crown Coins: Types, Values and Identification

A British crown can refer to several different coins and commemorative issues. The denomination and date alone are not enough to establish a value. What affects a crown’s value? Check the date, monarch, design, metal, finish, condition and whether the coin is a circulating-era issue or a commemorative crown. Silver and Proof examples must be...

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What To Do With Your Old Coins And Banknotes

Currency within the UK changes fairly frequently leading to coins and banknotes being taken out of circulation. When this happens, the Bank of England will usually give a set time period for people to exchange their old currency for the new coins or notes that are being released. But what happens if you miss this...

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Unveiling the 2023 JRR Tolkien £2 Coin: A Detailed Review

In the world of numismatics, the release of the 2023 J.R.R. Tolkien £2 coin has sparked a renewed appreciation for the literary giant behind such epics as “The Lord of the Rings.” Bearing the iconic Tolkien monogram encircled by runes, this piece is a tribute to the author whose narratives have transcended time, offering a...

READ

Do you need to report cryptoasset gains or income to HMRC?

Do you need to report cryptoasset gains or income to HMRC? You may need to report cryptoasset activity to HMRC when you dispose of tokens or receive them as income. The answer depends on what happened, how the tokens were received and the rules for the relevant tax year. This is a general guide, not...

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How to identify silver UK coins by date and denomination

How to identify silver UK coins by date and denomination A coin’s colour is not enough to prove that it is silver. Identification should start with the denomination, monarch, date, design and the official specification for that issue. Older British coins can be associated with silver, but the metal used depends on the coin, period...

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Can you still use King Charles III and Elizabeth II coins?

Can you still use King Charles III and Elizabeth II coins? Yes. King Charles III and Elizabeth II coins can appear together in UK circulation. The change of monarch does not make every earlier coin unusable overnight. The Royal Mint has released King Charles III coins alongside final Elizabeth II issues. Its published release describes...

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