Deep within a piggy bank, a 2p coin from 1985 was hiding in plain sight. The coin, which is set to go under the hammer later this month, was first discovered in the late 1990s. Its owner had initially thought it was just a regular 2p but kept it as a curiosity until it sparked the owner’s curiosity in 2025.
- The discovery of the coin was triggered by a similar 2p coin selling at auction, highlighting the unusual silver colour of the 1985 2p.
- Experts estimate that the 2p could fetch a substantial sum of £400.
- The coin was mistakenly made from cupronickel, a rare alloy used for 5ps and 10ps.
When a blank disc of metal is struck between two dies, an error coin can be created if the wrong blank is fed into the machine. In the case of the 1985 2p, a small number of coins were released into circulation with a familiar design but made of the wrong metal.
Numismatic Guaranty Company, a world-leading coin authentication service, has confirmed that the coin was mistakenly made from cupronickel. The metal mismatch is what sets this coin apart from its bronze counterparts.
Experts predict that several more like this 1985 2p coin may still be circulating, adding to the allure of this rare error coin.
Authentication and Provenance
To confirm the error, RWB Auctions submitted the coin to Numismatic Guaranty Company. The NGC verification process has confirmed the metal mismatch, and the coin is now listed in their global registry of certified error coins.
As a world-leading coin authentication service, NGC provides a high level of accuracy and reliability in identifying and verifying the authenticity of coins.
The Auction and Bidding Process
The 1985 2p coin is set to go under the hammer on Tuesday, April 23, at RWB Auctions near Swindon. Bidders can participate in person or online via Easy Live Auction.
The auction is expected to fetch a substantial sum, with experts predicting the coin could sell for over £400.
Bidders can take part in the online auction via Easy Live Auction, which offers a convenient and accessible way to participate in the bidding process.
Recent Sales of Rare Coins
RWB Auctions has a reputation for handling rare and unusual British coins. In 2024, they sold a trial 25p piece for £1,700 in September and a 2014 Lord Kitchener £2 coin with a missing denomination for £1,000 in February.
These sales demonstrate RWB Auctions’ ability to handle and sell rare and valuable coins, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming auction.
Conclusion
The 1985 2p coin mistake is a rare and exciting error coin that has captured the attention of coin collectors and experts alike. With its unique silver colour and confirmed metal mismatch, this coin is set to fetch a substantial sum. Bidders will have the opportunity to participate in the auction and take home this rare and valuable coin.
The auction is set to take place on Tuesday, April 23, at RWB Auctions near Swindon, and bidders can participate in person or online via Easy Live Auction.
