Families across the United Kingdom are being encouraged to rummage through their attics and old collections after a coin expert highlighted the staggering potential value of a specific pre-decimal coin.
The Coin Collecting Wizard's Viral Alert
In a video that gained traction on TikTok, a content creator known as the Coin Collecting Wizard shared crucial advice for potential treasure hunters. He revealed that a halfpenny, or 'ha'penny', in excellent condition from a particular year had "recently auctioned for big money." This small coin, which was worth half of an old penny, stopped being legal tender in July 1969.
The expert emphasised that the value of these coins hinges entirely on their date and preservation. "You need to look out for halfpennies from the 1800s," he advised, noting that condition is paramount. He pointed to an uncirculated 1860 halfpenny as a prime example of a coin that can command a huge sum.
A History Spanning Centuries
The halfpenny has a long and fascinating history in Britain. According to the Royal Mint Museum, while the silver penny dates back to the 7th century, dedicated halfpenny and farthing coins did not become regular currency until the 13th century. Before this, pennies were physically cut into halves and quarters to make change.
Over time, these silver coins became impractically small. The silver farthing was last minted under Edward VI, and the silver halfpenny ceased production a century later during the Commonwealth period. The later versions, like the one from 1860, were minted in copper and then bronze.
How Much Could You Find?
The potential finds are extraordinary. The Coin Collecting Wizard stated that if someone were to discover one of the very earliest halfpennies, perhaps from the 13th century, it could be valued at over £100,000. As reported by coin resource Coinstrail, an 1860 halfpenny sold for $11,500 (approximately £9,200 at historic rates) in a 2007 auction, demonstrating the significant sums involved for later rare dates in top condition.
"You never know what might be sitting in a box in your loft," the expert concluded, urging people to get their old coin collections out or ask elderly family members. A quick check could turn a forgotten piece of history into "serious money."
