British Currency FAQs

Collectors

• Where are Royal Mint products stocked?
• I have a coin that I think may be valuable. Can the Royal Mint confirm if this is the case?
• I have a £2 coin with a portrait of the Queen wearing a necklace. Is this rare or valuable?
• I have a 2p piece with the inscription 'NEW PENCE' on it. Does this make the coin rare or valuable?
• What alloy are the new 5p and 10p coins made from?
• Where did the edge inscription 'standing on the shoulders of giants' come from?
• Why does the edge inscription on the £2 and £1 coins sometimes appear "upside down"?
• What are 'bronze' coins made from? Why are some magnetic and some not?
• Do commemorative coins tarnish over time?
• Does the Royal Mint supply coin products from previous years (e.g. 2001 Baby Gift Set)?