This coin collector reveals one tiny detail on 20-cent coins that can turn it into treasure!

As we delve into the fascinating world of numismatics, collectors are captivated by not just the history and artistry of coins but also the thrill of finding a rare gem that could be hiding in plain sight.

For those who lived through the decimal changeover and saw their fair share of currency come and go, an exciting opportunity might be lurking in your old coin jars or drawers.


Michael McCauley, a seasoned coin collector with an eagle eye for the extraordinary, recently shared a tip that could turn your everyday 20-cent coins into a small fortune.

McCauley highlighted a specific feature on a 1966 20-cent coin that could make it worth up to $5,000.

The key to unlocking this treasure is to look for a subtle abnormality on the tail side of the coin.

While most 20-cent pieces from 1966 feature the number two with a straight baseline, the rare ones have a distinctive wave at the upper edge of the tail of the two.


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McCauley showed the difference between a regular 20-cent coin and a rare 20-cent coin with a 'wavy baseline'. Image Credits: TikTok/Michael McCauley


This wavy baseline is not just a quirk; as noted by the Perth Mint, it's considered one of Australia's rarest decimal coins still in circulation.

The coin's condition is paramount, as worn versions fetch around $600.

The same coins in mint condition can command up to $5,000.

McCauley was fortunate to find three of these rarities and encouraged everyone to check their 1966 coins for this lucrative anomaly.


The introduction of decimal currency on February 14, 1966, was a significant moment in Australia's monetary history.

These early coins often hold the most value for collectors due to their age and potential for variations.

The reason for the wavy baseline remains a mystery—adding allure and value to these coins.

Since McCauley's revelation, social media has been eager to discover if they possess this hidden treasure.

'I will be checking all my money boxes. They are filled with 20 cent coins,' one commented.

'I flushed three of those down the toilet about 15 years ago,' another wrote regretfully.


For those with a jar full of coins or a collection passed down through the family, now is the time to examine it closely.

If you're unsure about a coin's value or how to identify these subtle differences, consider contacting a local numismatic society or a professional coin dealer for advice.

They can provide expert guidance and may even offer appraisal services.

Remember, it's not just the wavy 20-cent piece that could be worth more than its face value.

Australian coins have a rich history of rarities and errors, from double strikes to misprints, which can be incredibly valuable to the right collector.
Key Takeaways

  • A coin collector highlighted a specific detail in some 1966 Australian 20-cent coins that can significantly increase their value.
  • The valuable coins bear a wavy baseline on the number two of the tails side, unlike regular coins with a flat baseline.
  • These rare coins can fetch up to $600 when worn and up to $5500 if they are in mint condition.
  • The wavy baseline 20-cent coins are one of Australia's rarest decimal coins in circulation, increasing interest among collectors.
Why not take a trip down memory lane and sift through your old coins? You might find that you're sitting on a small fortune. Share your stories of rare finds in the comments below!
 
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As a 17 old I was working in the Bank of NSW. Decimal currency was due to be started on Monday 14th February. On the preceding Friday the bank issued the new 1 and 2 cent coins to the staff. I remember going ice skating that weekend and showing them off to all my friends at Burwood NSW ice rink. Sadly I don't have those original coins now.
 
These articles always make it sound easier than it is to find the elusive 20-cent coin worth $5000. It isn't that easy, the wavey coin would need to be in perfect uncirculated condition, to be worth that sort of money. A circulated wavey coin would be worth between $200 and $400. They usually fail to tell people this information.
 
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These articles always make it sound easier than it is to find the elusive 20-cent coin worth $5000. It isn't that easy, the wavey coin would need to be in perfect uncirculated condition, to be worth that sort of money. A circulated wavey coin would be worth between $200 and $400. They usually fail to tell people this information.
And they should give these details! Nothing in this area is as straight forward as described
 

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