The rarest £5 coin, specifically among Brilliant Uncirculated versions sold in individual The Royal Mint Packs, is the 2014 Queen Anne £5 coin. This particular commemorative issue stands out due to its exceptionally low mintage figure.
Understanding the Rarity
The rarity of a coin is often determined by its mintage, which is the total number of coins produced. A lower mintage generally indicates greater rarity and potential for higher value among collectors. The 2014 Queen Anne £5 coin holds the distinction of being the least common in its category because of its limited production run.
This special coin was struck to commemorate a significant historical event: the 300th anniversary since the death of Queen Anne. Queen Anne was the last Stuart monarch of Great Britain, reigning from 1702 until her death in 1714. Her reign saw the unification of the Kingdoms of England and Scotland into a single sovereign state, Great Britain, in 1707.
The mintage for this specific coin underscores its scarcity, making it a highly sought-after item for numismatists focusing on modern British commemorative issues.
Mintage Details
The precise mintage figure for the 2014 Queen Anne £5 Brilliant Uncirculated coin is notably low:
| Coin Issue | Year | Mintage (Brilliant Uncirculated, Royal Mint Packs) | Commemoration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Anne £5 Coin | 2014 | 12,181 | 300th Anniversary of Queen Anne's Death |
This table highlights why the 2014 Queen Anne £5 coin is considered the rarest among its peers in the specified category. For context on other commemorative £5 coins issued by The Royal Mint, you can explore their official site dedicated to commemorative coins.
Collecting £5 Coins
£5 coins are primarily issued as commemorative pieces, celebrating significant royal anniversaries, historical events, or cultural milestones. Unlike circulating coinage, they are not typically found in everyday change but are produced for collectors. Their designs often feature intricate artwork and serve as historical records.
When collecting £5 coins, factors such as the theme, design, and, most importantly, the mintage figures contribute to their desirability and value in the collector's market. Understanding these aspects helps collectors identify truly rare and valuable additions to their collections.
