Wiltshire's buzzing with rare coin action! From a 1973 error coin selling for big bucks to Olympic treasures surfacing, discover the latest trends and insights.

Rare Coin Fever in Wiltshire: Auctions, Errors, and Olympic Gold!

Wiltshire, it turns out, is something of a hotspot for rare coin enthusiasts. Recent auctions and discoveries are proving that checking your change can be more than just a habit – it could be a lucrative hobby!

Wootton Bassett's Minting Marvel

RWB Auctions in Wootton Bassett recently saw a fascinating piece of numismatic history cross the block: a 1973 10p coin mistakenly minted in bronze. This isn't your average pocket change. While it bears the familiar crowned lion and Queen Elizabeth II portrait, its bronze hue sets it apart. Made from 97% copper instead of the usual cupronickel, this error coin is exceptionally rare. The Royal Mint themselves confirmed the error back in 1974, stating it was “struck, inadvertently, on a bronze coin-blank intended for another denomination.”

The owner held onto this little treasure for over 50 years! Christopher Collects from RWB Auctions noted that the owner achieved a good price. It goes to show, as he said, "checking your change with an eagle eye can still turn up rare and unusual coins."

Olympic Gold (and Silver and Bronze!) on eBay

But Wiltshire's not the only place where rare coins are making waves. Keep an eye on your 50p coins! A London 2012 Olympics 50p coin, featuring the offside rule, sold for over 21 times its face value on eBay. Yes, that's right – a 50p coin fetched £10.51!

The Allure of the Error

It's not just officially recognized rarities that are attracting attention. Error coins, like the misaligned 50p that sold for £50, are also proving popular. These imperfections, often overlooked, can significantly increase a coin's value.

Beyond Wiltshire: Parisian Gold

While Wiltshire’s auctions offer exciting finds, the world of rare coins extends far beyond. Consider the historic gold coin collection auctioned for $3.48 million in Paris. This collection, amassed by Paul Nars, included ancient coins from the Macedonian Empire and a series of French royal coins. While not directly related to Wiltshire, it illustrates the global appeal and potential value of rare coins.

So, What's the Takeaway?

The rare coin market is alive and well. Whether it's a minting error from the 70s or a commemorative coin from the 2012 Olympics, there's value to be found in the most unexpected places.

Happy Hunting!

So, next time you're counting your change, take a closer look. You never know, you might just be sitting on a small fortune! Who knows, maybe you'll find the next Wiltshire wonder!