1605 2 Pound Coin Value: What Is It Worth Today?

Collectors and history enthusiasts alike are often intrigued by coins that commemorate significant historical events. One such coin is the 1605 £2 coin, which references the infamous 1605 2 pound coin value Gunpowder Plot — a failed attempt to blow up the British Parliament. If you've come across this intriguing coin or are considering adding it to your collection, you're likely wondering about the 1605 2 pound coin value today.
🏛️ What Is the 1605 £2 Coin?
The 1605 £2 coin refers to a commemorative UK £2 coin issued in 2005, marking the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot — a pivotal event in British history. This coin does not date from 1605, but rather commemorates that year. The coin was part of the Royal Mint’s circulating £2 series and is highly collectible due to its historical significance and distinctive design.
🖼️ Coin Design and Features
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Obverse (Front): Features the official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley.
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Reverse (Back): Designed by Peter Forster, it shows a barrel of gunpowder, surrounded by the inscription:
"GUY FAWKES · NOVEMBER 5TH · 1605"
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Edge Inscription: "REMEMBER REMEMBER THE FIFTH OF NOVEMBER" — a nod to the famous rhyme.
🔍 Specifications:
Feature | Detail |
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Metal Composition | Nickel-brass & cupronickel |
Weight | 12 grams |
Diameter | 28.4 mm |
Edge | Milled with inscription |
Mintage | Approx. 5.14 million |
Issued Year | 2005 |
💰 1605 2 Pound Coin Value in 2025
The value of the 1605 £2 coin depends on a few key factors:
🔹 Circulated vs Uncirculated
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Circulated coins: Typically sell for £2 to £4, depending on wear and condition.
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Brilliant Uncirculated (BU): Can fetch £6 to £10.
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Proof versions (silver or gold): Worth £50 to £500+, depending on metal content and packaging.
🔹 Packaging and Presentation
Coins in official Royal Mint packs or presentation cases (e.g., BU packs or silver proof boxes) command a premium due to collectibility.
🔹 Error Coins
Rare minting errors or misprints (like misaligned 1605 2 pound coin value text or double strikes) can significantly increase the coin's value — sometimes exceeding £50 to £100.
📈 Market Trends and Popularity
The 1605 2 pound coin remains one of the more popular commemorative £2 coins, largely due to:
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Its connection to Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot
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A memorable edge inscription that captures public interest
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A relatively moderate mintage, making it collectible but still accessible
Collectors often include this coin in complete £2 sets alongside coins featuring Shakespeare, the World Wars, and technological achievements.
🛍️ Where to Buy or Sell the 1605 £2 Coin
You can find or trade the 1605 2 pound coin through:
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Online marketplaces – eBay, Etsy, Amazon
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Specialist coin dealers – The Royal Mint, Change Checker, Westminster Collection
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Coin fairs and numismatic shows
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Facebook coin collector groups and forums
✅ Tips for Buyers:
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Ensure authenticity; beware of fake listings, especially for proof versions.
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Check the coin’s condition (grade) before purchasing.
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Verify seller reputation if buying online.
🔚 Final Thoughts
The 1605 2 pound coin is more than just currency — it’s a piece of history in your hand. While its face value is £2, its collectible value can range much higher, especially in uncirculated or proof condition. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a casual collector, this coin is a worthy addition to any collection.