Royal Mint: 'Most wanted UK' 50p error coin sells for over £3,000

The London 2012 Olympic Aquatics 50p coin, which features one error often missed by members of the public, first entered circulation more than 15 years ago.

It has now been sold for £3750 by Royal Wootton Bassett-based Britannia Coin Company, located just outside of Swindon.

The coin features the famous ‘Lines Over The Face’ error, which is what makes it so valuable.

The rare 50p coin (Image: Britannia Coin Company)

Youtuber Christopher Collects holding the most sought after UK coin (Image: Britannia Coin Company)

Christopher Collects, a coin YouTuber and influencer who works in Royal Wootton Bassett, said: "These rare Olympic 50ps are among the most highly sought-after modern UK coins among serious collectors.

"We have handled a few of these 'Lines Over The Face' Aquatics coins, but this is the highest price we have ever achieved, proving there is still a strong market for genuine examples."

The ‘Lines Over The Face’ version was part of the coin’s original design before the Royal Mint amended the artwork, leaving only a small number of the earlier versions in circulation.

The coin was authenticated by the Numismatic Guaranty Company and sealed in a tamper-proof holder with a unique barcode and certification number.