A commemorative coin celebrating the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana has been listed online for an astonishing £10,000. Minted by The Royal Mint in 1981, the coin, valued at 25p, does not feature a face value engraved on its surface. It is notable for being the first British coin to depict three individuals, showcasing the overlapping profiles of the royal couple along with a crown.
The listing has raised eyebrows within the numismatic community, particularly after a rare coin collector, known on Instagram as @CoinCollectingWizard, shared insights with his 36,500 followers. He expressed disbelief upon encountering the £10,000 price tag, emphasizing that the coin cannot command such a value due to its high production numbers.
Expert Analysis of Value
The expert explained that millions of these coins were produced, stating, “That means almost everyone’s nan has one in her drawer somewhere.” He pointed out that while the coin is a celebratory item, it is officially worth only 25p. Made from a cupro-nickel alloy—comprised of 75% copper and 25% nickel—its metal value is negligible, worth just a few pennies.
Some coins were distributed in special presentation cases, including blue boxes and red wallets, but these remain common. The expert firmly stated that “absolutely none” of these coins are worth £10,000 unless a significant error exists, which would require authentication.
Providing guidance for potential buyers, he advised, “If you ever see a coin listed for thousands on eBay, make sure you check the sold listings, not the asking prices.”
Historical Context of the Coin
Prior to the introduction of £5 coins, significant royal events and national milestones were commemorated using crown coins minted to the same specifications as today’s £5 coins. The 1981 Charles and Diana coin is one of only four decimal crown coins ever minted. It was issued in the same year that the couple celebrated their wedding on July 29, when Diana Spencer became the Princess of Wales after exchanging vows at St Paul’s Cathedral in London.
As collectors navigate the often misleading world of coin listings, awareness and education remain key in determining the true value of commemorative items. The case of the Charles and Diana coin serves as a reminder to approach such listings with caution and informed skepticism.
