The 2 pence coin issued by the United Kingdom in 2007 is part of the British pound sterling currency system and was a circulating coin that year. Although not rare, it is an interesting piece for collectors due to its representation of early 21st-century British numismatics and its specific production characteristics.
Technical Specifications
This coin has the following physical and manufacturing characteristics:
- Denomination: 2 pence (0.02 GBP)
- Year: 2007
- Issuer: United Kingdom, minted by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales
- Metal: Copper-plated steel
- Weight: Approximately 7.12–7.14 g
- Diameter: About 25.9 mm
- Thickness: Approximately 2.03–2.05 mm
- Edge: Smooth, without inscriptions
Coin Design
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II, based on her fourth official portrait, designed by sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley. The Latin inscription around the portrait reads: ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D·2007, which translates to “Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith.”
Reverse (Back)
The reverse displays the Prince of Wales feathers emblem: three ostrich feathers within a coronet, with the German motto ICH DIEN (“I serve”) below. The denomination “2” appears alongside the emblem, with the words TWO PENCE inscribed above. This design was created by Christopher Ironside for the British decimal coin series.
Mintage and Circulation
In 2007, approximately 254,500,000 two pence coins were minted. This large mintage confirms that the coin is common and not rare among British coin issues.
Numismatic Value
Face Value and Market Value
- The coin’s face value is 2 pence (0.02 GBP).
- On the collectors’ market, coins in circulated condition or uncirculated (UNC) typically have a small premium over face value. Average prices range from $0.14 to $3.50 USD, depending on condition and collector interest.
Special Conditions and Varieties
Uncirculated coins or brilliant uncirculated coins may fetch slightly higher prices. However, there is no significant numismatic value for the standard 2007 issue. Coins with minting errors or rare varieties can attract more collector interest but are uncommon for this year. Genuine errors may increase value but require professional verification.
Conclusion
The 2007 UK Two Pence coin is a classic example of early 21st-century British decimal coinage: produced in large numbers for everyday circulation, featuring traditional design and strong royal symbolism. While not particularly valuable in normal condition, it is an essential piece for completing UK coin collections, representing the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the continued use of historic designs.
