Brits told to look for Christmas 50p coin 'worth over £300' - how to spot
An expert explained exactly how to find this rare piece
Brits are advised to examine their loose change for a scarce 50 pence coin featuring a cherished Christmas tale character, which could be worth as much as £300 to collectors. According to one specialist, the coin to look for shows Raymond Briggs' Snowman.
Minted in 2008, it represents a newer variant of a 2003 release. Speaking on TikTok, a specialist known as the Coin Collecting Wizard said: "This 50 pence is worth over £300! Save this!
"This sought-after collectable coin is a new edition of a rare Christmas-themed design first issued in 2003." The reverse of the coin displays an illustration of the famous Snowman preparing to take flight.
Next to him stands James, the story's protagonist. The coin can also be recognised by the word "Christmas" printed above the figures.
The specialist added: "Inspired by Raymond Briggs' The Snowman, first published in 1978. The magical tale of a young boy snowman coming to life was adapted into a short animated film in 1982, which has become a mainstay of British festive TV schedules.
"The 2003 Snowman and James coin was the first in a popular series produced in partnership with Pobjoy Mint to mark the 25th anniversary of the original storybook.
"This 2008 coin, struck for the 30th anniversary, recreates the 2003 design showing James and his snowy companion ready to take to the air in front of some seasonal fir trees.
"The value of this coin has increased dramatically over the years and easily sells for over £300 today."
However, there's a distinctive characteristic on the obverse (heads side) of this particular coin that collectors should watch for. The phrase "Isle of Man" is engraved around one edge of Queen Elizabeth's portrait.
Experts believe that merely around 30,000 coins featuring this specific design were produced and distributed into general circulation, rendering it exceptionally uncommon.
According to the Britannia Coin Company's website, this 2008 coin forms part of a series inspired by The Snowman. The company noted: "This 2008 coin, struck for the 30th anniversary, recreates the 2003 design showing James and his snowy companion ready to take to the air in front of some seasonal fir trees."
The firm characterised this piece as "extremely scarce" and "sought after". Previously, the website had advertised an example of the coin for £750.