A remarkable £2 coin, released by The Royal Mint in 2016 to honor the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, is currently making waves in the world of numismatics. Priced at an extraordinary £10,000 on eBay—5,000 times its face value—this rare collectible is drawing the attention of coin enthusiasts and Shakespeare admirers alike. Let’s dive into the details of this rare coin, its design, and the reasons behind its soaring price.
A Tribute to Shakespeare’s Legacy
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Released as part of a limited-edition series in 2016, this £2 coin was created to mark the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death. The coin is one of three issued by The Royal Mint to celebrate Shakespeare’s immense contributions to literature.
Each coin in the series was designed to reflect the themes and legacy of the Bard’s work, with this particular coin focusing on one of his most famous tragedies—Hamlet. Featuring powerful symbols from the play, such as a crown and dagger, this coin is a fitting tribute to Shakespeare’s enduring influence on the world.
Design and Symbolism: A Nod to Hamlet
The design of the £2 coin was crafted by renowned artist John Bergdahl, who carefully incorporated visual elements that represent key themes from Hamlet. The crown and dagger depicted on the coin are powerful symbols of betrayal, power, and tragedy—central themes in Shakespeare’s iconic play. These symbols are paired with Shakespeare’s name, further emphasizing the cultural and literary significance of the coin.
On the reverse side of the coin, a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, following the tradition of UK coinage, serves as a reminder of the monarchy’s connection to the nation’s history. The combination of Shakespearean symbolism and the royal portrait makes this coin a unique blend of British culture, history, and art.
The High Price Tag: Why This Coin Commands £10,000
At first glance, the price of £10,000 for a £2 coin might seem out of place. However, in the world of numismatics, it’s not uncommon for limited-edition coins featuring cultural icons or historical events to appreciate in value over time.
The £2 Shakespeare coin is particularly sought after for its historical relevance and limited availability. With only a small number of coins minted, collectors are willing to pay a premium for the opportunity to own such a rare piece of British heritage.
Coins that feature significant figures like Shakespeare often become more valuable as time passes. Shakespeare’s legacy is one that continues to influence literature, education, and culture around the world, which only adds to the coin’s appeal to collectors. The high price reflects both the rarity of the coin and its cultural importance, making it an attractive investment for serious numismatists and fans of the Bard alike.
Availability and Location: A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
Currently located in Witney, the £2 Shakespeare coin is being sold on eBay for £10,000, with an additional delivery fee of £8.95. Though the price is steep, it is reflective of the coin’s rarity and historical significance. The listing serves as a reminder of the thriving market for rare coins and the growing interest in pieces that commemorate cultural figures like Shakespeare.
Collectors eager to own a piece of literary history can view the listing online, but given the price, it’s clear that this is no ordinary coin—it’s an investment in a piece of history. As demand for these rare coins increases, their value is expected to grow even further.
Conclusion: A Piece of History with Lasting Value
The £2 Shakespeare coin is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a unique piece of literary and cultural history. The fact that this coin is being sold for £10,000 demonstrates the high regard in which collectors hold rare coins, especially those tied to iconic figures like William Shakespeare. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a Shakespeare enthusiast, owning this coin is an opportunity to possess a tangible connection to one of the world’s greatest writers.
As the value of rare, limited-edition coins continues to rise, this particular £2 Shakespeare coin may serve as a valuable investment for collectors, and a lasting reminder of the cultural power of Shakespeare’s legacy.