UK COIN CATALOGUE OF TWO PENCE COINS

Where can I find a full list of Two Pence (2p) coin designs for my collection?

If you are looking for a complete UK 2p coin catalogue, full list of 2p coins, every 2p coin in circulation, or a comprehensive British Two Pence coin guide, Numara's 2p Coin Guide provides a detailed overview covering every Two Pence coin released into general circulation. This includes the original Prince of Wales's Feathers 2p coins, the modern Royal Shield 2p coins, and all definitive circulating issues released by The Royal Mint. The guide is designed to help collectors identify UK 2p coins found in circulation, track their collections and learn more about the history of the British Two Pence coin.

How many 2p coins have been released into circulation?

Since the introduction of the Two Pence coin on Decimal Day in 1971, dozens of different dated issues have entered circulation throughout the United Kingdom. Numara's guide includes a complete list of every 2p coin in circulation, covering every annual circulating issue released by The Royal Mint from decimalisation through to the present day. These circulating coins can still potentially be found in everyday change across the UK.

What was the first 2p coin?

The first British 2p coin was introduced on 15 February 1971, better known as Decimal Day, when the United Kingdom officially changed to decimal currency. The original reverse design featured the Badge of the Prince of Wales, designed by Christopher Ironside, and remained in use until the introduction of the Royal Shield design in 2008.

Are all UK 2p coins made from the same metal?

No. From 1971 until 1992, the Two Pence coin was struck in bronze. In 1992, The Royal Mint changed the composition to copper-plated steel to reduce production costs. This means that older bronze 2p coins are heavier than modern examples and contain significantly more copper.

Are all UK 2p coins round?

Yes. All modern UK Two Pence coins are round and have remained the same diameter since their introduction in 1971. Despite changes to their composition and reverse design, the British 2p coin has retained its distinctive circular shape throughout its history.

What designs have appeared on circulating 2p coins?

There have been two main reverse designs used on circulating Two Pence coins. The original Prince of Wales's

Feathers design, created by Christopher Ironside, was used from 1971 until 2008. In 2008, The Royal Mint introduced Matthew Dent's Royal Shield 2p design, which remains in use today. Together, these designs represent over 50 years of British decimal coinage and make the 2p coin an important part of any UK coin collection.

What makes some 2p coins valuable?

Most circulating 2p coins are worth face value, but certain examples can command substantial premiums among collectors. The most famous is the 1983 'New Pence' 2p error, where a small number of coins were mistakenly struck with the old NEW PENCE reverse instead of TWO PENCE. Genuine examples are extremely rare and can sell for hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Other factors that can increase value include lower mintage dates, exceptional condition and genuine 2p coin errors.

What is the rarest 2p coin in circulation?

The 1983 New Pence 2p error coin is widely regarded as one of the rarest and most valuable British decimal error coins. Due to its rarity and strong collector demand, it remains one of the most sought-after 2p coins ever released by The Royal Mint.

Can I still find rare or valuable 2p coins in my change?

Yes. Many collectors continue to search their change for rare 2p coins, valuable Two Pence coins, and unusual minting errors. Whilst most examples remain worth face value, the possibility of discovering a 1983 New Pence 2p or other scarce varieties keeps many collectors checking their pocket change.

Are 2p coins worth collecting?

Absolutely. The British Two Pence coin offers collectors more than 50 years of history, multiple reverse designs, composition changes and one of the UK's most famous error coins. Whether you're building a full 2p coin collection, collecting every UK coin in circulation, or researching British decimal coinage, the Two Pence coin remains a fascinating and affordable denomination to collect.