From Mint to Majesty: Collecting Queen Elizabeth II Coins

Many would agree that coins are more than just a means of payment. This small piece of metal is closely related to the history and culture of entire decades.  Her Majesty is one of the most iconic historical figures, so without too much modesty we can say that coins with her images are among the most valuable and popular for both professional numismatists and history buffs. You may have even read about them in the Coins Red Book.

During the more than 70 years of Elizabeth II's reign, her image appeared on coins in more than 35 countries and became one of the most recognizable symbols of the monarchy. Today, coins with Queen Elizabeth II are desirable collectors' items that vary in denomination, design, material and, most importantly, value.

As a history lover or an avid collector, you may also be interested in questions like “how much are Queen Elizabeth coins worth?” or “what are the most valuable Queen Elizabeth the second coins?”. So, here we would like to present you some interesting details and maximize the secrets of Queen Elizabeth coins' value.

Interesting Facts about Queen Elizabeth 2 Coins

Queen Elizabeth II coins were minted in the Commonwealth of Nations and in Great Britain during her reign from 1952 to 2022. They have both numismatic and cultural value. Here are a few key points about such coins:

1. Coins of Great Britain

Since 1953, when the first coin bearing her image was issued, Elizabeth II's portrait has been regularly updated to reflect her age. Coins include both regular issues (pence, shillings, pounds) and commemorative coins.

Commemorative coins were issued to honor anniversaries and important events, for example, the Queen's golden and diamond jubilee. These coins are often limited in number and are of great interest to collectors.

2. Commonwealth Coins

Coins with the Queen's portrait were minted in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and other Commonwealth countries. These coins could have their own unique designs and denominations, but Queen Elizabeth II remained on the obverse of the coin as head of state.

3. Coins with Different Portraits

Over the decades, the Queen's portrait has changed several times. For example, there have been five main versions of the portrait on UK coins, reflecting changes in the Queen's appearance over time.

4. Coins After Her Death

After the death of Queen Elizabeth II, in 2022, the new coins are expected to feature the new monarch, King Charles III. But the question “how much is a Queen Elizabeth II coin worth?” is still as relevant as ever, because coins with the image of Elizabeth II will remain legal tender and will be used in circulation (as well as will attract the attention of collectors) for a long time to come.

Related article: Hawaii dollar coins.

Most Valuable Queen Elizabeth II Coins

Collectors from all over the world are ready to pay huge amounts for rare and unique coins with the image of Queen Elizabeth II. So, let us tell you more about the most expensive and attractive specimens that deserve special attention.

1953 Coronation £5 Gold Coin

This coin was issued in honor of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and is one of the most valuable coins in the world.  The £5 coin from 1953 is a rare one. It was minted in limited numbers and most of these coins were issued in special sets dedicated to this solemn occasion (these sets were intended for officials and numismatists alike, but the mintage was strictly limited).

The obverse of the coin depicts a young Elizabeth II (the first portrait of the Queen to appear on coinage after her accession to the throne, designed by Mary Gillick, artist and engraver). The reverse displays the coat of arms of the United Kingdom, incorporating heraldic symbols (the reverse design may vary between mints and specific issues).

• Material and characteristics: the coin is made of pure 22 karat gold and weighs about 40 grams.

• Market value: due to its rarity and historical significance, the market value of this coin can range from £20,000 to £40,000, depending on the condition of the coin and the availability of certificates of authenticity.

2007 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf Coin (100 kilograms)

This huge gold coin weighing 100 kilograms was issued by the Royal Canadian Mint. The obverse shows a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II with precise details, while the reverse shows the traditional symbol of Canada. The coin was issued in a limited edition as part of a program to honor the monarch.

• Material and characteristics: the coin is made of 999.99 pure gold and weighs exactly 100 kilograms, making it one of the heaviest and largest gold coins in the world.

• Market value: In 2010, this coin sold at auction for a stunning $4 million at its $1 million face value, making it one of the most expensive coins depicting Queen Elizabeth II.

UK 2 Pence Coin 1971 (Rare One)

At first glance, it may appear to be an ordinary 2 pence coin. The obverse features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the reverse bears the coat of arms of the Prince of Wales. But the key factor in the popularity of the coin among collectors is its rarity: the issue was limited due to an error in minting and subsequently this design was replaced by another. 

• Material and characteristics: these coins were originally minted in bronze (97% copper) and its weight is 7.12 grams.

• Market value: due to the rarity of the mintage and an error in the inscription, this coin could sell for between £2,000 and £5,000.

The 1999 Australian Silver Dollar

This silver Queen Elizabeth coin is issued by the Royal Australian Mint to celebrate the new millennium. The obverse depicts Queen Elizabeth II, and the reverse side of the coin is specially designed to celebrate the new millennium.

• Material and characteristics: the coin is made of pure 999 silver and weighs 31.1 grams.

• Market value: despite its relatively low face value of $1, this Queen Elizabeth II silver coin value may vary up to AU$1,500 on the market, depending on condition and demand.

A 1953 Penny (Proof grade)

The 1953 penny is a coin issued in the first year of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, in honor of her coronation. The coin was specially issued for collectors in Proof grade (which means it was made with special care and high quality). The obverse shows a portrait of a young Elizabeth II wearing a laurel wreath, while the reverse has the traditional penny design of the time.

• Material and characteristics: the coin is made of bronze (copper 97%, tin 2.5% and zinc 0.5%), the weight of the coin is 9.45 grams

• Market value: how much is a Queen Elizabeth penny worth? If it goes about this 1953 penny, in perfect condition and in their original packaging, it can be worth from a few hundred to several thousand dollars or pounds. For example, 2023 Proof penny prices could reach around $1,000 to $2,000 for a specimen in good condition. However, values can vary depending on market conditions and collector interest.

Coins depicting Queen Elizabeth II are not only collectors' items, but also a living proof of history.  We have looked at the most expensive pieces dedicated to Her Royal Majesty, but of course there are plenty of other interesting and valuable pieces that also deserve your attention. 

But if you already own any of the Queen Elizabeth II coins or have a collection of other memorable and interesting coins, consider using the Coin ID Scanner App. With the help of this app, you will be able to easily get information about the items in your collection, estimate their market value and access the latest news in the world of numismatics. Take advantage of technology now to maximize your hobby pleasure.