If you're like most Aussies, you probably have a jar, tin, or a drawer overflowing with loose change.

It could be for the grandkids' lolly money, or it's just waiting for a rainy day.

It's time to rummage through those coins, for a humble coin could be worth more than its
face value!


Collectors have been clamouring for a rare 10-cent coin out there, and it could have a massive value of up to 70 times its initial value.

So, what's so special about this 10-cent piece?

In 2019, the Royal Australian Mint released a version of the 10-cent coin with a unique twist.


It featured a new portrait of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Jody Clark.

This portrait featured Her Majesty wearing the Victorian Coronation Necklace, which is not seen on the standard 10-cent coin.

The coin also had tiny initials that read 'JC' in honour of the designer.


According to the Mint, two million of these coins were minted in 2019.

While that might sound like a lot, it's a drop in the ocean compared to the latter years.

In 2021, the Mint produced 22.8 million 10-cent coins, making the 2019 version a rare find.

According to coin expert Michael McCauley, collectors are willing to pay between $1.30 and $7 for a 2019 10-cent coin, depending on its condition.

If you're lucky enough to stumble across a 2011 standard 10-cent coin, you could be in for a bigger windfall.

'Don't sleep on the 10 cent coins. One of the best ones to look for are the 2011 standard issue 10 cent coins,' McCauley shared.

With only 1.7 million coins minted, these coins could fetch up to $50 at an auction.


Other 10-cent coins to watch for

The 2019 and 2011 coins are not the only ones worth keeping an eye out for.

The 1985 10-cent coin also had a low mintage.

Just like the 2019 coin, only two million of these coins were minted in the said year.

Watch Michael McCauley's explainer video here:

The Royal Australian Mint did not issue standard 10-cent coins for the years 1976, 1987, 1995, 1996, and 2003.

Any coins with these dates would have come from special mint sets.

How to spot valuable coins

If you want to check your change for these rare coins, here's what to look for:

• 2019 10-cent coin: Look for the Queen's portrait with the Victorian Coronation Necklace and the tiny 'JC' initials.
• 2011 10-cent coin: Check the date and make sure it's a standard-issue coin and not from a mint set.
• Other years: Look for the years mentioned above and check if the coin has a special finish.

Why are these coins valuable?

It all comes down to rarity and demand.

Coins with low mintage numbers are harder to find, which makes them more desirable to collectors.

Add in a unique design or a minting error, and you have a recipe for a valuable coin.

If you think you have found a valuable 10-cent coin, here are a few tips:

• Check the condition: Coins in better condition (less wear and tear) are worth more.
• Do your research: Look up recent auction results or consult a reputable coin dealer.
• Consider getting it graded: Professional grading can help you get the best price.
• Sell through trusted channels: Use reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces with good buyer protection.

So, next time you're counting out coins for a cuppa or a scratchie, take a closer look.

That ordinary 10-cent piece could be worth a whole lot more than you think.
Have you ever found a rare or valuable coin in your change? Do you have any tips for fellow members on what to look for? Share your stories and photos in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you! Happy hunting, everyone!

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