Experts have urged people to check their change for a rare 1983 2p coin with a Royal Mint error

An expert has encouraged people across Britain to check their loose change for a rare coin that could fetch more than £1,000. This highly desirable 2p piece from the 1980s is worth significantly more than its face value.

The coin is especially prized because of a mistake made by the Royal Mint during manufacturing. Produced in 1983, it incorrectly displays the wording “new pence” rather than “two pence”. This occurred because all 2p coins made between 1971 and 1981 carried the “new pence” marking. While this was later amended to “two pence” in 1982, a limited number were minted with the wrong inscription.

In a video shared on social media platform TikTok, a specialist known as the Coin Collecting Wizard provided further details. He said: “The 1983 ‘new pence’ two pence coin from the United Kingdom is considered rare due to a specific transition in the design of the coin.

“In 1983, the Royal Mint in the UK began the process of changing the inscription on the two pence coin from ‘new pence’ to ‘two pence’. If you find this rare coin, you are looking at £1,000 plus.”

Numismatic specialists at Change Checker, speaking previously via TikTok, have suggested these specific coins could command around £1,000. They explained: “In 1982 the design of the 2p coin changed from saying ‘new pence’ to ‘two pence’. “However, some coins struck in 1983 used the old reverse die and therefore have the old inscription of ‘new pence’.

Therefore, it’s worth checking your new pence 2p coins for the 1983 date, as it could be valued up to £1,000. ” According to The Royal Mint’s website: “In 1983 a small number of 2p coins were mistakenly struck with the wording ‘new pence’ on the reverse.

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“These coins were produced to brilliant uncirculated quality – a standard higher than ordinary circulating coins – and were included in special sets intended for collectors.

“Since there are relatively few coins with the date 1983 and the inscription ‘new pence’ in circulation, they may well have a value higher than face value to a collector.

“The Royal Mint is, however, unable to comment on the value of any individual coin and we would recommend that you should consult a coin dealer.”