Rare Irish 20p Coin Could Be Worth £12000: In the world of numismatics, certain coins transcend their simple monetary value, becoming coveted treasures for collectors. One such hidden gem is the 1985 Irish 20p coin—an exceptionally rare piece that could potentially turn your spare change into a windfall of up to £12,000. Here’s why you should keep an eye out for it.
The Birth of the Irish 20p Coin
The Irish 20p coin was introduced into circulation on October 30, 1986, marking a significant step in Ireland’s monetary history. It was the first coin in the Irish decimal currency system that differed in size from its British counterpart, symbolizing Ireland’s monetary independence post-1979.
The reverse side of the coin features a design by Percy Metcalfe, illustrating the Irish Hunter horse—a motif previously seen on the pre-decimal half-crown coins minted between 1928 and 1967. The obverse side displays the iconic Irish harp along with the inscription “Éire” and the year of minting.
Specifications of the Irish 20p Coin
- Composition: 79% Copper, 20% Zinc, 1% Nickel
- Weight: 8.47 grams
- Diameter: 27.1 millimeters
- Edge: Segmented reeding with alternating smooth and grained bands
- Design:
- Obverse: Irish harp with the inscription “Éire” and the minting year
- Reverse: Irish Hunter horse
The 1985 Trial Strikes: A Rare Prelude
Before the official release of the 20p coin in 1986, a small batch of trial pieces dated 1985 was minted. These coins, roughly 500 in total, were distributed to companies and organizations for the purpose of testing vending machines and coin-operated devices.
The plan was to retrieve all trial coins and melt them down, but approximately 50 coins were never returned, making these trial-strike coins extraordinarily rare. Today, only an estimated 10 of these 1985-dated coins remain in private hands.
The Rarity and Market Value of the 1985 Irish 20p Coin
The extreme rarity of the 1985 Irish 20p coin has made it a prized possession for collectors. Experts estimate that only about 10 such coins are known to exist in private collections, and the demand for them has led to sky-high auction prices.
In recent years, these rare coins have been known to sell for amounts as high as €15,000 (approximately £12,000), making it one of the most valuable pieces in the Irish numismatic world.
How to Identify the 1985 Irish 20p Coin
To check if you have one of these rare coins, simply examine the obverse side. A genuine 1985 Irish 20p coin will have the year “1985” alongside the harp and the “Éire” inscription. Since the coin was never officially released for circulation in 1985, any 20p coin dated 1985 is part of the extremely limited trial issue.
Other Notable Rare Irish Coins
While the 1985 20p coin is one of the most valuable, other Irish coins also hold significant worth:
- 1943 Florin: With fewer than 50 believed to exist due to limited production during World War II, uncirculated examples of this coin could fetch up to €25,000.
- 1943 Half-Crown: Also rare due to wartime production constraints, this coin is highly sought after by collectors.
- 1940 Penny: With only 312,000 minted, this coin is another rare gem from Ireland’s numismatic history.
Why the 1985 Irish 20p Coin is a Collector’s Dream
The 1985 Irish 20p coin holds value far beyond its face value due to its extreme rarity and historical significance. Only a small number of these coins were ever produced, making them highly sought after in the numismatic community. If you happen to have one of these elusive coins in your collection, you could be holding a piece of Irish history worth up to £12,000.
FAQs
How can I verify the authenticity of a 1985 Irish 20p coin?
To verify authenticity, it’s advisable to consult reputable coin dealers or numismatic experts. Professional grading services can also provide certification and offer a detailed evaluation of the coin’s authenticity.
What factors influence the value of rare coins?
Several factors contribute to the value of rare coins, including rarity, demand, historical importance, and the coin’s condition.
Where can I sell a rare coin?
Rare coins can be sold through established auction houses, reputable coin dealers, or online platforms specializing in numismatics. Ensure that you choose a trusted marketplace to achieve the best value for your rare find.
Conclusion
In the fascinating world of coin collecting, the 1985 Irish 20p coin is an iconic example of how everyday items can hold extraordinary value. Due to its rarity and unique historical context, it remains one of the most prized coins among collectors. So, take a moment to sift through your spare change—you might just discover a hidden treasure worth thousands!
