1982 Rare 20 Pence Coin – First Year of Issue (United Kingdom)
This rare 1982 20 pence coin holds significant numismatic value as the first ever 20p coin issued in the United Kingdom. Struck by the Royal Mint, it was introduced to fill the gap between the 10p and 50p denominations following decimalisation.
* Obverse: Features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin, wearing the 'Girls of Great Britain and Ireland' tiara. The legend reads “ELIZABETH II D.G.REG.F.D. 1982”.
* Reverse: Designed by William Gardner, the reverse displays a crowned Tudor Rose, with the denomination “20” below and the word “PENCE” above.
* Metal composition: Cupro-nickel (84% copper, 16% nickel)
* Diameter: 21.4 mm
* Weight: 5 grams
* Edge: Heptagonal (seven-sided), plain edge
* Mintage: Just over 740 million were minted in 1982, but uncirculated or proof versions, especially in original packaging, are sought after.
This coin is especially prized by collectors as the inaugural issue in the 20p series, with clean examples and early mint strikes commanding premium value—particularly if found in proof sets or mint condition.
Nr 307