Best coin collections: from the NHS to Narnia

Millions of people across the globe have coin collections. People of all ages and walks of life are drawn to this age-old pastime, which was popular with the Roman Emperor Augustus and even Louis XIV of France. A popular hobby, coin collections may be rare old coins or even commemorative special editions to their growing collections. If you think this is your hobby, peruse our beginner’s guide to the best coin collections in the UK.

If you’ve got a thirst for knowledge, you’ve come to the right place – says the Royal Mint. After all, collecting isn’t just about acquiring a collection. Whilst that alone is very exciting, it's educational too. You’re collecting a piece of our past, which can tell you about the notable figures of the time. If history was your favourite subject at school - besides school dinners - this pastime is right up your street. Not only that, but coin collecting can be affordable if you know where to look.

Best coin collections at a glance:

• Best memorial set for the late Queen: The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial 2-coin Set - view at The Royal Mint
• Best NHS commemorative coin: NHS 75th Anniversary 2023 UK 50p Coin - view at The Royal Mint
• Best British film coin: Bond Films of the 1980s 2024 UK £5 Coin - view at The Royal Mint

If you want to build up a collection, all you need to do is decide what coins interest you and start from there. We've picked out our favourite collections and commemorative pieces from the late Queen Elizabeth II to Dame Shirley Bassey to Narnia. Plus, we've answered some burning questions.

Best coin collections UK

Best coin collections FAQs

Are coin collections worth the money?

Coins can be a profitable investment. But, it’s important to keep your hobby fun. You don’t always have to think about investment and looking at the historical significance and beauty can be enough for most. In truth, most coins in circulation are only worth their face value – unless you come across a rare (or particularly old) coin, which can sell for how much numismatics are willing to pay for it.

Perhaps you’ve found a stash of old coins in the attic, some you don’t recognise. Your next thought may be: How do I get my coin valued? Well, the Royal Mint offer a valuation and authentication service. As the maker of UK coinage, they have unparalleled knowledge about historic coins – and will identify and value them for you. They’re a great place to buy commemorative coins and collections, too.

There are plenty of Coronation memorabilia sets to display in your home, too.

Why do coins tarnish?

With time, all coins show signs of ageing. There are quite a few terms to describe this such as tarnishing, discolouring and toning. Don’t worry, it’s completely natural. But, this does depend on where you keep your coins. After all, it’s a chemical reaction brought about by exposure to moisture and chemicals in the air. Coins can be damaged by improper handling, too.

Though a slow process, many collectors like the tarnishing as it can give some edge and untapped beauty to collections. The Royal Mint does not recommend cleaning your coins as the surface may become unattractive afterwards. Instead, they recommend storing, displaying and handling your collection with care.

How do I store or display coin collections?

Unfortunately, no storage solution will provide total protection for your coins. But, you can make good choices to protect your precious collection from further damage. Remember to keep your coins away from extreme conditions, such as cold and humidity. Housing your coins in a special coin album, folder or holder is your best bet. Here, you can organise your collection – with dates, mint marks and some facts about each piece.

Better yet, you could always get a display to show off your collection to guests. In holders, coins are typically stored in small boxes or transparent album pages - like a binder. Here, you can display your collection and keep it safe. There are coin cabinets, which offer museum-standard display storage. You can find some coin collection storage and display units from the Royal Mint.

How do I sell coin collections?

Whether you've inherited a collection of old-looking coins or spent years amassing one of the best coin collections, there may come a time when you wish to sell your coins. And - that's just fine. We're here to guide you through the process - as for many, selling collectables can be a daunting process.

If you're looking to sell your coin collection, there may be a coin collector local to you, whether in a coin shop or through an online dealer. Have a little look through local directories (or tackle the internet) to find out about this. These coin experts may be able to identify, authenticate and value your collection. If not, you may be able to do this yourself. Then, you can make some money by way of auctions or with the experts you speak to. Hopefully, there will be someone who can help.

We recommend using The Royal Mint's impressive online service, here you can safely sell your rare and historic coins to a knowledgeable buyer you can trust. Plus, it is super easy. Due to unprecedented demand, they suspended their Coin Buying Service to allow time to respond to current open enquiries, but they will resume this service soon.

Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Yours, an all-rounder who will write on anything from décor to wellness. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is listening to a musical soundtrack and tending to her houseplants.