Having sold for £155 on eBay, the rare 50p coin has contributed to an increase in demand for collectible currency. The 50p in question is the Kew Gardens 2009, famed for its scarce mintage and unique design.
Kew Gardens 50p: The Holy Grail of Collectables
The Kew Gardens 50p was issued in 2009 for the 250th anniversary of the Royal Botanic Gardens, it depicts the revered Chinese Pagoda, surrounded by a decorative leafy canopy. With only 210,000 examples minted, collectors and enthusiasts have long regarded it as one of the rarest 50p coins in circulation across the UK. Its rarity has made it one of the most desired items among numismatists and layman collectors alike.
Last Sale Price and Its Market Value
On 26 October 2024, a bidder on eBay purchased the Kew Gardens 50p for £150, an impressive 300 times its face value. The auction drew ten bids, which attests to the coin’s desirability. Usually on the secondary market, these coins will sell within a range of £150 to £250 depending on condition and the popularity of the year of issue.
Aspects That Influence the Value of the Coin
What makes the Kew Gardens 50p so valuable? There are several reasons:
Very Low Mintage: Also, only 210,000 coins were made, making it a very rare coin, giving it a boost in value.
Unique Design: The detailed representation of the Chinese Pagoda makes it attractive to collectors looking for unique items.
Historical Weight: Its familiarity is augmented by the commemoration of a significant anniversary.
How to identify the Kew Gardens 50p
Beyond this, here is where to look for this key coin:
Obverse Side: Features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Reverse Side: Depicts the Chinese Pagoda from Kew Gardens framed by a decorative leafy canopy.
Inscription: The years “1759” and “2009” appear, commemorating the anniversary.
Advice For New Collectors
If you are interested in coin collecting or think you have a rare coin, consider these steps:
Research: Use resources such as the Change Checker’s Scarcity Index to help determine a coin’s rarity.
Condition Assessment: Minting or coins in uncirculated condition attract a higher price.
Selling Platforms: Although eBay is widely used, it can be a scam-filled minefield. At the same time, the Royal Mint’s Collectors Service delivers authentication and valuation services, offering a safer route to sell valuable coins.
Stay Current: Follow market attention, since the value of collectible coins can change with demand and new finds of rare coins.
