A surge in interest for rare Australian $2 coins is prompting collectors to hunt for items that could be worth up to $350. As coin collecting gains popularity, many Australians are discovering hidden treasures among their change.
One notable figure in this burgeoning market is Jamie Pang, who left his full-time sales position last year to pursue his passion for coins through his business, JiggyCoins. Pang has witnessed a remarkable increase in the appeal of collectible coins, particularly following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. “When the Queen passed away, all her effigies were on the coins, and this has now transitioned to the King’s imagery," he explains. This historical shift has inspired many to collect coins as potential long-term investments.
eBay Australia reports a staggering 190 per cent annual increase in searches related to coin collecting. Alaister Low, head of collectables for eBay Australia, noted that “coins offer a piece of history you can hold” and highlighted the investment opportunities available to enthusiasts.
In the previous year, Pang’s venture generated a revenue of $500,000, achieving a profit margin of 20 to 25 per cent. His focus remains on selling rare $2 coins. Among the most sought-after is the 2012 Red Poppy Coin, which commemorates Remembrance Day. Limited to just 500,000 minted pieces, this coin can command prices as high as $350.
The 2013 Queen’s Coronation Coin, with a production run of one million, is another valuable find. While it typically sells for $60 to $80 in circulation, its rarity adds to its appeal. Additionally, the 2022 Honey Bee Coin, issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Australian Honey Bee industry, is also a notable collectible, originally selling for between $8 and $15.
Pang states that archived coins like the 2017 Rosemary Remembrance Day Coin, which showcases a coloured depiction of rosemary, may fetch around $10 or more when circulated.
While many high-value coins, such as the 2016 Kimberley Sunrise 2oz Gold Proof High Relief Coin that sold for $19,500 on eBay, are primarily collector’s items, there remains hope that avid searchers will unearth rarer circulating coins from their change.
Pang recounts finding a rare red poppy coin among bulk coins. It’s possible to discover several of the 2013 Coronation coins as well, stating, “I would have found dozens, maybe 24.”
As the trend for coin collecting continues to grow, keeping an eye out for these unique coins could yield exciting financial opportunities for collectors and casual finders alike.
