Check for 'rarest ever' 50p coin featuring King Charles – and value is 'skyrocketing'

Always check your coin for hidden gems (Image: PA)

It's become increasingly important to check your coin collection for rare pieces, as some designs can fetch a staggering amount.

The latest coin causing a stir on social media features a portrait of King Charles III. So do you have it in your collection?

A TikTok user, @CoinCollectingWizard, highlighted the now most sought-after 50p piece which recently surpassed the famous Kew Gardens coin in popularity.

Not only are there fewer of these coins in circulation, but they can also sell for significantly more than the London landmark coin.

In his video, he stated: "The coin you need to look for is the Atlantic Salmon 50p. The Atlantic Salmon 50p coin is now the rarest 50p coin in active circulation with only 200,000 released to UK banks and Post Offices."

He continued: "This is an exciting day in the world of coin collecting as the Atlantic Salmon coin takes the crown from the almighty Kew Gardens 50p which held the title for the past 15 years."

Released at the end of 2023, the Atlantic Salmon 50p was part of the nation's tribute to King Charles' Coronation year. The user added: "The coin has now officially overtaken the Kew Gardens 50p which had a mintage of 210,000 when it was introduced in 2009.

"And now the 2023 Atlantic Salmon 50p is the most sought-after 50p in circulation. The coin has already started to gain traction on the likes of eBay and coin groups, and the price is skyrocketing but does seem to be settling around the £100 mark."

The Royal Mint recently declared the coin as the UK's rarest in circulation, with only 200,000 copies minted. This coin has dethroned the "highly collectible" 2009 Kew Gardens 50p, which had held the top spot for 15 years.

Now the Atlantic Salmon design is considered the most scarce and valuable, with Rebecca Morgan from the Royal Mint stating: "Finding these special designs, like the Atlantic salmon, in your change is a win for all collectors."

Curious if you might have one? The TikTok video sparked discussions, with one user claiming: "I have them all," while another lamented: "So hard to find!"