Brexit Botched Coins: A Numismatic Goldmine
Introduction
The discovery of two surviving Brexit 50p coins bearing an incorrect exit date has sent shockwaves through the collector community. These coins, featuring the infamous "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations" inscription, have been hailed as the equivalent of Willy Wonka's "golden ticket."
The Botched Coins
In 2016, the Royal Mint produced one million commemorative Brexit 50p coins with an incorrect exit date. These coins were subsequently melted down due to the delay in the UK's departure from the EU. However, it has now emerged that two of these botched coins managed to escape destruction.
Numismatic Significance
According to Gregory Edmund, a numismatic specialist at Spink & Son auction house, the discovery of these coins is a significant event for collectors. The error on the coinface has made them highly valuable, with estimates suggesting they could fetch tens of thousands of pounds at auction.
The Hunt Continues
The discovery of the two surviving coins has sparked a frenzy among collectors, who are eagerly searching for others that may have escaped the Royal Mint's purge. Edmund has established a hotline to encourage owners of these rare coins to come forward.
Market Value
If the coins were to go to auction, Edmund anticipates that they could surpass the current Spink & Son record for a circulating coin, which stands at £42,000. The error on the coins has made them highly sought-after by collectors, driving up their market value.
Conclusion
The discovery of the botched Brexit coins has created a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of numismatic history. The coins have become a symbol of the uncertainty and challenges surrounding Brexit, and their immense value reflects the enduring significance of this historic event.