title: Look out for this rare penny coin worth £500 if it features this image

Coin collectors will pay a tidy sum for this piece if it features a specific image that is 'difficult to spot'

Coin collectors will pay a tidy sum for this piece if it features a specific image that is 'difficult to spot'

A coin expert has urged Brits to keep their eyes peeled for a rare penny that could be worth £500. However, this piece is only particularly sought after by collectors if it features a specific image.

In a new video series uploaded to social media platform TikTok, an expert known as the Coin Collecting Wizard documented the most valuable pre-decimal pennies in the UK. Among the coins of note was a penny from the year 1902.

On the obverse side of the coin, better known as the head side, is the image of King Edward VII. But where the interest lies is the reverse side - also known as the tail side.

All versions of this coin have the image of Britannia as a woman with a trident. However, the more valuable and rarer of the versions depict a low tide at her feet.

The Coin Collecting Wizard says: “Next up, we have the 1902 low tide penny. The low tide penny is a certain variety of the 1902 where the sea line is lower than the usual pennies.

“As you can see from the examples, the low tide is slightly lower on Britannia's leg.” In the video he showed an example of each type of the coin.

“The left coin is an example of the high tide type, the right one depicts a coin of the low tide type,” he continued. “It is quite a difficult one to spot, but when you do, you will be a master at it.”

He added that this version of the coin is worth an impressive £500, depending on its condition. The expert said: “Low tide coins are worth considerably more than their high tide counterparts.

“And if you're lucky enough to find a 1902 low tide penny, then you're looking at around £500 in uncirculated condition.” His advice is also shared by UK-based coin dealer Chard.

On its website, it says: “There are two varieties of the 1902 penny, one with a 'normal' tide, and a 'low' tide variety. The latter is considerably scarcer.”