- Circulation: 8,190,000
- Year issued: 2012
- Edge inscription: Something will turn up
- Value circulated: £2.00
- Value circulated in excellent condition: £3.00
- Value uncirculated: £10.00 and upwards
- Composition: Inner – cupro-nickel. Outer – Nickel-Brass
- Scarcity index: 1
In 2012 the Royal Mint released a £2 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens’ birth. This coin is very sought after as it represents one of the country’s most well-known and influential writers, as well as being of interest to those who enjoy British history.
History of the coin
The £2 is one of the newest additions to British coinage. It was first minted in 1986, but only as a commemorative coin for the Commonwealth Games.
In 1994 a review of current coinage was carried out and it was agreed there was a need for a £2 coin. This was first released in 1998. It is larger than other coins in circulation and is bi-metallic. The coin also has an inscription around the outside, which changes when it is used for commemorative purposes.
About Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens was a 19th century writer. His novels are still widely read and are popular all over the World.
His early work was published in periodicals and became known as ‘Sketches by Boz’, the name he used as a pseudonym. He then began writing text for a series of illustrations, and this ultimately became The Pickwick Papers.
He wrote 15 novels in total, as well as many short stories, articles and novellas. His novels have been adapted for film and television and have been translated in to many languages.
Some of his most well-known books include a Christmas Carol, David Copperfield and Oliver Twist.
How many Charles Dickens £2 coins were made?
In 2012, 8,190,000 Charles Dickens £2 were released in to circulation.
Design and Designer
- Front design:
The Charles Dickens £2 has a silhouette of Dickens which has been made from all the titles of some of his best known works. The words ‘1812 Charles Dickens 1870’ appear around one side.
- Obverse design:
Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley
Designer: Matthew Dent
Matthew Dent is an award winning graphic designer, who has an interest in coins and medals.
He is responsible for the Royal Shield design which is on the current UK coin set, and this design won both D&AD black and yellow pencil awards and the IACA award for best new coin or coin series.
He has been shortlisted for many other coin designs, and his design was selected for the WWF 50p.
Variations
Circulation of the Charles Dickens £2 in 2012 was 8,190,000.
- Brilliant uncirculated coins are available
- 2,600 Silver Proof coins are available.
- 1,200 Silver Proof Piedfort coins were produced
- 1,000 Gold Proof coins were produced.
