A seller from County Durham has surprised many online users by listing a 2018 Tailor of Gloucester 50p coin on eBay for a massive £20,086.72. This unusual listing has caught the attention of both coin collectors and casual shoppers, especially fans of the Beatrix Potter 50p series.
But is this coin really worth that much? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Tailor of Gloucester 50p Coin?
This coin is part of the Beatrix Potter 50p collection, a series of coins made by the Royal Mint between 2016 and 2018 to celebrate the famous British author’s 150th birthday.
The Tailor of Gloucester design, created by Emma Noble, features a charming illustration of a mouse sitting on a reel of thread, reading a newspaper — a famous scene from the classic children’s book.
The Royal Mint produced 3.9 million of these coins in 2018, which makes it one of the rarer coins in the Beatrix Potter set, but not the rarest overall.
Why Is It Listed at Over £20,000?
The eBay seller has described the coin as “extremely rare,” a phrase often used in listings to attract interest. However, coin experts and the Royal Mint urge buyers to be cautious. Just because a coin is listed at a high price doesn’t mean it will sell for that amount.
A Royal Mint spokesperson said, “This coin is definitely collectable and has value above its face value, but inflated prices on auction sites don’t always reflect what people are actually willing to pay.”
The Beatrix Potter 50p Series – Why So Popular?
The Beatrix Potter 50p coins are some of the most collected coins in the UK. With characters like Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy Bunny, and Jemima Puddle-Duck, the series has a nostalgic and artistic appeal.
Many of these coins are still found in circulation. However, uncirculated or error versions — coins in perfect condition or with minting mistakes — can sometimes sell for higher prices.
That said, most coins don’t fetch thousands of pounds, even if they are listed for that much online. Experts always recommend checking real-world sales, not just eBay listings.
What Makes a Coin Valuable?
The value of a coin depends on several factors:
- Rarity (how many were made)
- Condition (whether it’s circulated or uncirculated)
- Demand (how many people want it)
- Where and how it is sold
Sometimes coins go for high prices at auction or online, but most collectors prefer buying from trusted dealers who can offer proper valuation.
Top 10 Most Valuable 50p Coins in the UK
Here are the most valuable 50p coins according to Royal Mint, based on rarity:
- Atlantic Salmon (2023) – 200,000 minted
- Kew Gardens (2009) – 210,000 minted
- Olympic Wrestling (2011) – 1,129,500 minted
- Olympic Football (2011) – 1,161,500 minted
- Olympic Judo (2011) – 1,161,500 minted
- Olympic Triathlon (2011) – 1,163,500 minted
- Peter Rabbit (2018) – 1,400,000 minted
- Flopsy Bunny (2018) – 1,400,000 minted
- Olympic Tennis (2011) – 1,454,000 minted
- Olympic Goalball (2011) – 1,615,500 minted
The Tailor of Gloucester coin isn’t on this list, but it is still considered a collectable.
The listing of the 2018 Tailor of Gloucester 50p for over £20,000 may look exciting, but experts advise caution. While the coin is rare and collectable, most coins sell for far less than their listing prices on auction sites. If you own a similar coin, it’s worth researching its real value through trusted sources. And if you’re thinking of buying, make sure you’re doing it for the love of collecting — not just in hopes of a quick profit.
FAQs
What is the Tailor of Gloucester 50p coin?
The Tailor of Gloucester 50p is part of the Royal Mint’s Beatrix Potter collection released in 2018. It features a mouse reading a newspaper, sitting on a reel of thread, and was designed by Emma Noble.
How many Tailor of Gloucester coins were made?
According to the Royal Mint, 3.9 million Tailor of Gloucester 50p coins were minted in 2018, making it one of the rarer coins in the Beatrix Potter series, though not the rarest overall.
Is the Tailor of Gloucester 50p really worth £20,000?
While it is collectable, experts say it’s unlikely to sell for £20,000. Many online listings are priced high, but actual sales are usually much lower. Always research real market values.
Why are Beatrix Potter 50p coins popular?
The Beatrix Potter 50p coins are loved for their charming designs featuring classic storybook characters. They are popular among UK collectors and often sell for more than face value, especially uncirculated versions.
What makes a 50p coin valuable?
Factors like rarity (low mintage), condition (uncirculated or error coins), demand among collectors, and where it’s sold (auction vs dealer) all affect a coin’s value.
