UK Coin Error Catalogue
Every type of British coin error explained — what it is, how it happens, how to spot it, how to authenticate it, and what it's worth. Each entry covers a single error category with UK-specific examples and realised auction prices.
Why error coins are valuable
Royal Mint quality control catches the vast majority of strike errors before coins leave the mint, so any error coin in circulation represents a process failure that slipped through. Combined with collector demand, this scarcity means a £2 coin with a missing edge inscription can sell for 100× face value, and a 50p struck on the wrong planchet can clear £1,500. Larger denominations and bimetal coins (£2) typically command higher premiums than 1p or 2p errors of equivalent severity.
Counterfeits and post-mint damage are the biggest risks when buying errors. PCGS, NGC and CGS UK certification is the gold standard for any error coin worth over £200. For lower-value examples, the identification checklists on each error page below help separate genuine errors from kitchen-table fakes.
Related
- Identify a UK coin — figure out what coin you have before checking for errors
- Detailed errors list guide
- How to spot fake British coins
- How to get a coin graded
See UK error coins selling on eBay
Sold listings only — what real buyers paid for genuine error coins.
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