If you’ve ever found a shiny $2 coin in your change and wondered if it might be worth more than a trip to the bakery, you’re not alone!

The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and right now, a brand-new $2 coin is causing quite a stir across Australia.

But before you start rummaging through your wallet or jumping onto eBay, there’s an important warning you need to hear.


The Royal Australian Mint has just released a commemorative $2 coin to mark the 30th anniversary of the Torres Strait Islander flag being officially recognised as one of Australia’s national flags.

This isn’t just any coin—it’s a beautiful tribute to the Torres Strait Islander people's culture, identity, and resilience.

The coin’s design features the flag on the tail side, with blue symbolising the ocean, green for the land, and black representing the people.


On the head side, you’ll find the effigy of King Charles.

Emily Martin, acting chief executive of the Royal Australian Mint, described the coin as 'a meaningful tribute to culture, identity and resilience' and 'a proud reminder of the strength and spirit of the Torres Strait Islander people.'

Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby echoed this sentiment, saying, 'To see our flag represented in such a historic and widely recognised way is a proud moment for all Torres Strait Islanders.'


Here’s where it gets interesting for collectors and everyday Aussies alike. There’s a standard $2 coin in a presentation card, with 100,000 minted and priced between $20 and $22.

A roll of 25 coins is also available, limited to just 15,000 rolls and selling for around $90 to $100. The rarest is the silver proof version—only 7,500 were made, each presented in a special case with a numbered certificate, retailing for about $80.

These coins are available from July 3 at The Mint Shop in Deakin, Canberra, and through selected authorised distributors.

As soon as the coins were announced, opportunists began listing them on eBay and other online marketplaces for eye-watering prices.

One seller is asking $599 (plus $65 postage!) for a roll of the $2 coins.

Others are offering single silver coins for $300 or more, and a pair of silver coins for a whopping $440—far above the official retail price.


It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, especially if you hope to snag a rare piece of Aussie history or make a tidy profit.

But the Royal Australian Mint has issued a stern warning: 'There is no guarantee on the quality or authenticity of products purchased from unauthorised sellers.

Any listings prior to the official release date are considered illegitimate.'

In other words, if those sky-high prices tempt you, you could be paying hundreds for a coin that’s not even genuine, or worse, not delivered at all.

The world of coin collecting can be a bit like the wild west. When a new, limited-edition coin is released, demand can skyrocket—especially if the coin has cultural or historical significance.

Some buyers hope to flip the coins for a quick profit, while others are genuine collectors or want a special keepsake.

But remember, just because someone is asking $599 for a coin doesn’t mean it’s actually worth that much.

The real value of a coin depends on its rarity, condition, and demand among collectors.

And while some rare $2 coins have sold for hundreds in the past, there’s no guarantee these new coins will follow suit.

If you’re keen to add the Torres Strait Islander flag $2 coin to your collection, the safest way is to buy directly from the Royal Australian Mint or one of its authorised distributors.

This way, you know you’re getting the real deal, complete with a certificate of authenticity if you opt for the silver proof version.

And don’t forget—sometimes these commemorative coins end up in general circulation. So keep an eye on your change! You might just find a little piece of history in your pocket.


Coin collecting can be a rewarding hobby, whether you’re in it for the thrill of the hunt, the history, or the potential value.

But as with any collectible, it pays to do your homework and buy from reputable sources. If a deal looks too good (or too expensive) to be true, it probably is.

And remember members—if you’re ever unsure about a coin’s value or authenticity, check with the Royal Australian Mint or a registered coin dealer before parting with your hard-earned cash. Happy collecting!
Have you ever found a rare coin in your change? Are you planning to hunt for the new Torres Strait Islander $2 coin? Or have you ever been caught out by an online scam? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below.

Read more: Coin enthusiasts clamour to add this $2 coin to their collection. Find out why