A coin collecting expert has urged people to check their pennies for rare dates that could make them a small fortune – so here are the signs you should keep an eye out for
People are being urged to check their change as they may unwittingly have a small fortune in their possession.
You could be sitting on a goldmine, according to a coin collecting expert who says there’s a chance your jar of change could host a rare gem. Keen collectors know that the value of old UK pennies hinges on their mint date and condition.
In fact, rarities like the elusive 1933 penny can fetch upwards of £200,000. The Coin Collecting Wizard took to TikTok to encourage followers to dig through their collections for any high-value dates.
He said: “Do you have old pennies worth a fortune? Comment below the date.” He also posed the question: “Did you know there are many pre decimal pennies from the United Kingdom worth a lot of money?”
In a clip that has amassed 13,000 views, he featured several pennies that might just turn out to be worth a lot more. “It is all about the date and condition of these coins,” he said.
For example, spotting a 1967 pre decimal penny might not make you rich. But if you come across a 1919 penny branded with a “KN” mint mark, you could be looking at a value in the thousands.
This elusive “KN” signifies the King’s Norton Mint, an establishment that was among those minting British currency, making coins with this mark rarer and typically more sought-after, particularly when they’re well-preserved.
The TikToker said: “Or if you were extremely lucky and found the Holy Grail of pennies, the 1933 penny, then this would probably fetch you over £200,000,” He also pointed out: “Another example is the 1912 with an H mint Mark. Depending on condition this can be around 20 to 40 pounds.”
Coins from the Heaton Mint, especially those with the coveted “H” mint mark like the 1912 penny, could be worth a small fortune, particularly in good nick or from a rare year.
He added: “There is also any coin before 19 – it starts becoming crazy prices if it is in good condition,” urging followers to inspect their loose change for hidden treasures.
People shared their own finds in the comments with one saying: “Yes, I’ve got a bag full – been in my family for generations.” Another person said: “I’ve got a bag load.” And boasting, a third said: “I’ve got them all.”