The King Charles III coin became the rarest 50p in circulation in 2023 – here’s what you should know
The King Charles III coin became the rarest 50p in circulation in 2023 – here’s what you should know
Lauren Haughey Lifestyle and Money Reporter
20:04, 20 Feb 2026
Before casually discarding that loose change in your wallet or purse, examine your coins. A recently produced 50p is now worth a substantial sum and you could potentially benefit from it.
At first sight, it might appear to be an ordinary coin – it’s a silver, heptagon-shaped 50p minted just two years ago. Yet, the Royal Mint previously declared it one of ‘the rarest’ in circulation, with merely 200,000 available.
“In 2023, the Atlantic salmon became the rarest 50p coin in circulation,” specialists at the British coin maker have claimed, according to the Mirror. “Part of eight new definitive designs representing flora and fauna from across all four UK nations following His Majesty King Charles III’s accession to the throne, it entered circulation at the end of November 2023.”
The 2023 coins, released six months following King Charles III’s coronation, feature a portrait of the monarch on one side, created by Martin Jennings. This is paired with a distinctive, definitive salmon image on the reverse, reportedly influenced by His Majesty’s commitment to the environment.
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Atlantic salmon populations are severely threatened by climate change, overfishing, water pollution, and a range of other human-driven factors. Still, they can be spotted in the unspoilt rivers of Scotland and Wales, as well as certain parts of North and South West England.
As of 2024, experts at Copes Coins suggested that certain ‘2023 Atlantic Salmon’ pieces were selling for around £150, though this was expected to rise. Right now, a select 20-piece bag is also listed on eBay for £2,760.70, while others are available at various prices.
It’s believed that the most sought-after amongst these are coins lacking a ‘privy mark’ — a tiny crown image situated at the nape of His Majesty’s neck.
Copes Coins explained: “The Salmon 50p coins in the Royal Mint sets include the special privy mark (the little crown) shown below, behind the King’s head. This version of the coin is only found in the 2023 Definitive Annual Sets, and can still be bought from the Royal Mint for £34.”
Its experts further noted: “The version you will find in your change WILL NOT have a privy mark[…] The coins without a privy mark and dated 2023 are the rarest coins in circulation, and they are the ones that have a mintage figure of only 200,000.”
Beyond this, it’s worth bearing in mind that several other factors can influence a coin’s worth. A coin in poor condition, for example, will likely command a lower price than one that appears virtually new.
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