Always check your stash for hidden gems(Image: (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto))

'Holy grail' coin everyone should be on the lookout for could be worth a lot

by · NottinghamshireLive

A rare sixpence coin from 1952 has sparked excitement among collectors and social media users alike. Hailed as the "holy grail" of sixpence coins by TikTok aficionado @CoinCollectingWizard, this coin is one to keep an eye on for its potential value above its nominal worth.

Addressing his sizable audience of 211,000 followers, he said: "Who remembers putting a six pence in your Christmas pudding? " According to him, the scarcity of the coin, with only about one million minted, makes it particularly desired by collectors.

The pre-decimal sixpence, which was worth one-fortieth of a pound or six old pence, continued to be legal tender for a period following decimalisation in 1971 but has since disappeared from UK circulation. Nonetheless, it remains a sought-after item for collectors.

"It's the holy grail of sixpence coin collecting, these continued to be legal tender for a while after the currency became decimal in 1971," he explained. Depending on its condition, the value of such a coin can vary significantly, with even a coin of lower quality fetching up to £30, and pristine examples commanding much higher prices, reports the Express.

Sporting an image of King George VI, the 1952 sixpence is made from cupro-nickel, featuring an uncrowned Royal portrait on its obverse and a Royal cipher on the reverse, flanked by the year and surmounted by a crown. The famed "FID DEF" motto graces the top edge of the coin, with "SIXPENCE" proudly displayed below.

Historically, the sixpence coin, valued at six pre-decimal pennies, was first minted in silver during Edward VI's reign in 1551, only transitioning to cupro-nickel post-1947. The sixpence, commonly known as a tanner or half-shilling, was last minted for circulation in 1967. Collectors are now keenly searching eBay for the coveted 1952 six pences.

It's advisable to research before looking for that rare coin, as factors like mintage numbers and condition can significantly affect a coin's worth. A TikTok video on the topic has attracted plenty of attention, with one user commenting: "I have four in my collection."