‘Holy grail’ rare penny coin worth loads with millions out there

A rare coin is causing a stir on social media, with claims it could be worth more than its face value.

The 1952 six pence, dubbed the “holy grail” of coin collecting by TikTok user @CoinCollectingWizard, is one to watch out for. In a post shared with his 211,000 followers, he asked: “Who remembers putting a six pence in your Christmas pudding?”

He revealed around one million of these coins were produced, making them relatively scarce compared to others. The pre-decimal six pence was equivalent to one fortieth of a pound sterling or six pence sterling.

“It’s the holy grail of six pence coin collecting, these continued to be legal tender for a while after the currency became decimal in 1971,” he said. “But are now long from UK change, however collectors are still wanting them in their collections.”

The value of the coin depends on several factors, including condition. A poor grade six pence can fetch £30, but one in mint condition could sell for much more.

The 1952 six pence features King George VI and is made of cupro-nickel. Its obverse boasts an uncrowned portrait of King George VI, while the reverse displays a Royal cypher with the date divided on either side and a crown above.

Then the iconic “FID DEF” inscription adorns the top, with “SIXPENCE” emblazoned below. The six pence, valued at six old pennies, was first struck in silver back in 1551 under Edward VI and later switched to cupro-nickel post-1947.

Often referred to as a tanner or half-shilling, this coin ceased production for circulation after 1967.

Collectors scour eBay for the 1952 six pences.

Before hunting for that elusive rare coin in your pocket change, it’s wise to do some homework. Factors such as mintage numbers and condition can greatly increase a coin’s value.

Since the TikTok video was posted, it garnered numerous likes and comments. One commented: “I have four in my collection.”