A Coin Worth Thousands
A rare 50p coin featuring Beatrix Potter’s Benjamin Bunny is making headlines after being listed on eBay for £34,000—about $40,000. Posted by a seller in Cirencester, England, this 2017 coin is being sold for 68,000 times its face value. The listing, reported by the Bicester Advertiser, has collectors excited due to the coin’s unique design and reported rarity, making it a hot item for anyone hunting British treasures.
Why This Coin Is Special
The 2017 Benjamin Bunny 50p is part of a series celebrating Beatrix Potter’s 150th anniversary. Designed by Emma Noble, it shows the mischievous bunny in his Tam O’Shanter hat, with Queen Elizabeth II on the reverse. While 25 million of these coins were minted, some have a rare rotation error, where the Queen’s head isn’t aligned properly when flipped. This error makes certain coins far more valuable, though the Royal Mint hasn’t officially confirmed it. This specific listing claims the coin is a “must-have” for collectors.
The eBay Buzz
The Cirencester listing isn’t alone—other Benjamin Bunny 50p coins have appeared on eBay with sky-high prices, some as much as £150,000. The seller describes it as a rare find from the Decimal Coinage series, perfect for fans of British coins or Beatrix Potter. Over 1,600 people are watching similar listings, but experts warn buyers to be cautious. Coin Collector Wizar on Instagram noted that some sellers list common coins at crazy prices, hoping someone bites. Checking “sold” listings shows most Benjamin Bunny coins sell for just 50p.
Key Details of the Benjamin Bunny 50p
Here’s a quick look at the coin’s details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 2017 Benjamin Bunny 50p |
| Listed Price | £34,000 ($40,000+) |
| Mintage | 25 million |
| Key Feature | Possible rotation error |
| Designer | Emma Noble |
| Material | Cupronickel (some claim silver) |
Tips for Coin Hunters
To spot a valuable Benjamin Bunny 50p, check for the rotation error—flip the coin and see if the Queen’s head is upside down. Look for the 2017 date and the bunny design. Since 25 million were made, it’s one of the most common 50p coins in the UK, so only those with errors are worth big money. Use a magnifying glass to inspect details, and compare with “sold” listings on eBay to gauge real value. If you think you’ve got a rare one, visit a coin shop for an expert opinion.
Should You Buy It?
The Benjamin Bunny 50p has collectors talking, but experts urge caution. While the coin’s design is charming and tied to Beatrix Potter’s legacy, its high mintage means most aren’t worth thousands. Listings like this one for £34,000 bank on the rotation error hype, but without proof, it’s a risky buy. “A coin is only worth what someone will pay,” says coin expert Sarah Thompson. For now, the eBay listing is a reminder to check your change—you might have a hidden gem, but do your homework before spending big.
