Christine Younan

Six unique polymer £5 notes featuring a micro-engraved portrait of Harry Kane were created to mark his 2018 World Cup Golden Boot. Two went to Kane and the Football Association, while four were spent in Edinburgh, Merthyr Tydfil, Meriden and Northern Ireland. The notes carry specific serial numbers and are estimated to be worth at least £50,000 each at auction, although none has yet been claimed or sold. Anyone finding one is advised to preserve it and contact a specialist or auction house rather than spend it.

Listings on eBay showing King Charles 50p coins priced up to £10,000 are misleading, as the coins were produced in large numbers and typically sell for only their face value. A coin expert highlighted that only the Atlantic Salmon 50p, confirmed by the Royal Mint to have a mintage of 200,000, is currently the rarest circulating 50p, generally valued between £50 and £90. Collectors are advised to verify rarity through design details, consult professionals and rely on sold listings for accurate valuations.

A rare non-circulating Royal Shield 50p coin from years including 2009, 2010, 2011, 2016, 2018 and 2021 can sell for £40–£80 depending on condition, significantly exceeding face value. These NIFC coins, often taken from proof or collector sets, resemble standard coins and may be spent unknowingly. The 2017 Shield 50p is also sought after due to its low mintage of 1.8 million. Other scarce UK circulation coins such as the Atlantic Salmon and 2009 Kew Gardens 50p remain highly valued due to their exceptionally limited numbers.