A Coin That’s Captivating Collectors
A rare 50p coin featuring Beatrix Potter’s beloved character, Benjamin Bunny, has caught the attention of collectors after being listed on eBay for an astonishing £34,000 (around $40,000). This 2017 coin, sold by a seller in Cirencester, England, is priced at nearly 68,000 times its face value. The listing, covered by the Bicester Advertiser, has sparked excitement due to the coin’s unique design and rumored rarity, making it a sought-after item among British coin enthusiasts and Beatrix Potter fans alike.
What Makes the Benjamin Bunny 50p Coin So Special?
The Benjamin Bunny 50p was released in 2017 as part of a special series commemorating the 150th anniversary of Beatrix Potter. Designed by Emma Noble, the coin depicts the mischievous Benjamin Bunny wearing his iconic Tam O’Shanter hat, while Queen Elizabeth II appears on the reverse side. Although 25 million of these coins were minted, some feature a rare rotation error where the Queen’s head is misaligned when flipped. This error, though not officially confirmed by the Royal Mint, has made certain coins far more valuable, adding a layer of intrigue to collectors.
Why Is the eBay Listing Generating Buzz?
The high-profile listing from Cirencester is not an isolated case. Other Benjamin Bunny 50p coins have appeared on eBay with similarly high asking prices—some reaching as much as £150,000. Sellers describe these coins as rare finds from the Decimal Coinage series, appealing to collectors of British coins and Beatrix Potter memorabilia. However, coin experts caution potential buyers. According to Coin Collector Wizar on Instagram, many common coins are inflated in price by sellers hoping to attract a buyer. Actual sold prices indicate that most Benjamin Bunny coins exchange hands for their face value of 50p.
Benjamin Bunny 50p Coin at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 2017 Benjamin Bunny 50p |
| Listed Price | £34,000 ($40,000+) |
| Mintage | 25 million |
| Key Feature | Possible rotation error |
| Designer | Emma Noble |
| Material | Cupronickel (some claims of silver versions) |
Tips for Spotting a Valuable Benjamin Bunny 50p
- Look for the rare rotation error by flipping the coin and checking if the Queen’s head is upside down or misaligned.
- Verify the date “2017” and the Benjamin Bunny design featuring the Tam O’Shanter hat.
- Remember, with 25 million coins minted, most are common—only those with errors are likely valuable.
- Use a magnifying glass to carefully inspect details and spot any minting irregularities.
- Compare prices by reviewing “sold” listings on eBay or other marketplaces to understand the real market value.
- If you believe your coin is rare, seek a professional appraisal from a trusted coin dealer.
Should You Consider Buying This Coin?
The Benjamin Bunny 50p is undeniably charming and holds sentimental value for many collectors. However, experts advise caution before paying premium prices. Despite the hype around rotation errors, the high mintage means the vast majority of these coins aren’t worth thousands. Listings demanding tens of thousands of pounds often rely on speculative value rather than confirmed rarity. As coin expert Sarah Thompson reminds us, “A coin is only worth what someone is willing to pay.” If you’re thinking about purchasing, do thorough research and consider professional advice.
Final Thoughts: Check Your Change for Hidden Gems
While the Benjamin Bunny 50p coin has collectors buzzing, it also serves as a reminder to inspect your loose change. You might uncover a hidden treasure or a collectible worth more than its face value. Always stay informed, compare prices, and consult experts before making big investments in coins. With knowledge and care, collecting coins can be both rewarding and fun.