Collectors are buzzing with excitement following the announcement of the rarest circulating 50p coin in the UK - the 2023 Atlantic Salmon coin. This little piece of change, featuring the image of King Charles III on one side and the depiction of the Atlantic salmon on the other, is now valued at over £100, according to experts.
Released only this year, the Atlantic Salmon coin replaced the long-standing champion of rare coins, the Kew Gardens 50p, which had held its title for over 15 years. After 210,000 Kew Gardens pieces were minted for the coin's 2009 release to commemorate the botanical garden's 250th anniversary, it was officially knocked off the top by the Atlantic Salmon with only 200,000 minted coins.
A TikTok coin collector known by the moniker Coin Seeker recently highlighted the coin’s scarcity to his followers, emphasizing, “The rarest coin in the UK. This is the 2023 King Charles salmon and this is immaculate condition.” His message is clear - treasure hunters should examine their pockets, wallets, or even behind sofa cushions for this cherished currency.
It seems collectors have heeded the call; sold listings have shown prices ranging from £98.99 to as much as £110.79 on eBay. Just recently on December 30, three of these Atlantic Salmon coins fetched impressive amounts at auction, confirming their desirability.
Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, expressed her enthusiasm for the release of the Atlantic Salmon coin and the excitement within the collecting community. She stated, “The releasing of mintage figures is eagerly anticipated among the coin collecting community – and this year is particularly exciting as we reveal the Atlantic Salmon as the rarest 50p in circulation.”
Coin collectors have long honed their skills to identify rare coins, but experts assert it’s increasingly likely those hunting for coins might stumble upon this collectible unexpectedly. Coin Seeker also pointed out, “You could still possibly find one of these in your change. So make sure you check your change.”
The rise of the Atlantic Salmon reflects shifting patterns within the numismatic community. For more than ten years, the Kew Gardens coin was at the center of collecting efforts due to its limited release and beautiful design, which features the famous Chinese Pagoda. Now, with the introduction of the Atlantic Salmon, the focus has shifted, creating new opportunities for collectors.
Since 2023 has seen pivotal changes within the realms of British coinage, the introduction of designs celebrating King Charles III’s coronation has added layers of interest among collectors. With only 200,000 pieces available for currency, the Atlantic Salmon coin stands as not just currency but also as collectible art.
The Kew Gardens coin, now the second rarest circulating 50p, was originally produced for collectors intending to commemorate the royal gardens, with its intricately detailed design capturing the essence of the area. Comic illustrations tied to famous British stories - such as Beatrix Potter’s characters and Olympic sports - have historically held interest, but the latest release signals powerful changes within what collectors may seek.
Beyond the design and mintage, coin condition plays a pivotal role determining value. A pristine Atlantic Salmon 50p will command much higher prices than one showing signs of wear. Collectors will find value often hinges on how the coin is sold, whether at auction sites or through coin dealers who typically apply rigorous standards for evaluative sales.
The world of coin collecting continually evolves, and the Atlantic Salmon 50p has marked its place as the rarest circulating coin, which highlights the intersection of history, culture, and finance. The Royal Mint notes how unique designs transform currency for many, illustrating the potential treasure hidden within everyday change.
With the Royal Mint actively updating collectors about current mintages, enthusiasts are encouraged to stay informed and watch for variations, especially amid growing interest surrounding such highly coveted currencies. The Atlantic Salmon is truly making waves among collectors!