This FAQ covers the most common questions about the 2016 £1 coin, including its design, value, rarity, and how to identify counterfeit versions. Whether you're a collector or just curious, this guide provides clear, fact-based answers.

What is the 2016 £1 coin?

The 2016 £1 coin is a UK one-pound coin issued by the Royal Mint, featuring the fourth and final portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark. It was the last year of the old round £1 coin before the new 12-sided coin was introduced in March 2017.

The coin is made of nickel-brass (a mix of 70% copper, 5.5% nickel, and 24.5% zinc) and has a diameter of 22.5mm. It weighs 8.75g and has a milled edge with lettering. The reverse design, by Christopher Ironside, features the Royal Shield of Arms.

How much is a 2016 £1 coin worth?

Most 2016 £1 coins are worth their face value of £1 because they were minted in large quantities (over 400 million) and circulated widely. However, some rare varieties or coins in exceptional condition can be worth more to collectors.

  • Standard circulated coin: £1 (face value)
  • Uncirculated coin in mint condition: £2–£5
  • Proof or silver versions: £10–£50 depending on edition

Always check for errors or special mintages, but be cautious of scams claiming extreme value without verification.

Is the 2016 £1 coin rare?

No, the 2016 £1 coin is not rare. The Royal Mint produced over 400 million coins for circulation that year, making it one of the most common £1 coins in existence. Rarity is low, but certain varieties (like the 'mule' error) can be scarce.

For example, the rare 'mule' coin (where the reverse design is misaligned) is worth thousands, but only a handful exist. Most 2016 £1 coins are common and not sought after by serious collectors.

How can I tell if a 2016 £1 coin is genuine?

To check if a 2016 £1 coin is genuine, look for the following security features: the edge inscription 'DECUS ET TUTAMEN' (meaning 'An ornament and a safeguard'), the hidden image of a trident on the reverse, and the correct weight and dimensions.

Compare the coin to a known genuine one. Use a magnifying glass to check the fine details, and weigh it – a genuine coin weighs 8.75g. Counterfeit coins often have poor edge lettering, blurry designs, or a different weight.

Why did the UK replace the round £1 coin in 2017?

The UK replaced the round £1 coin in 2017 to reduce counterfeiting. It is estimated that about 3% of all round £1 coins in circulation were counterfeit, costing taxpayers millions of pounds. The new 12-sided coin is harder to fake due to its advanced security features.

The new coin also uses a bi-metallic design, a holographic image, and a micro-lettering edge, making it more secure. The old round coins were withdrawn from circulation on 15 October 2017.

What are the key differences between the 2016 £1 coin and the new 12-sided coin?

The main differences are shape, composition, and security features. The 2016 £1 coin is round, made of nickel-brass, and has a simple milled edge. The new 12-sided coin is bi-metallic (nickel-brass outer ring and nickel-plated inner core), with a hologram and micro-lettering.

  • Shape: Round vs. 12-sided
  • Composition: Single metal vs. bi-metallic
  • Security: Basic edge vs. advanced features
  • Design: Royal Shield vs. various themes

The new coin is also lighter (8.75g vs. 8.75g? Actually the new coin weighs 8.75g as well, but the design is different).

Can I still use a 2016 £1 coin to pay for things?

No, the 2016 £1 coin is no longer legal tender. The old round £1 coins were demonetised on 15 October 2017, meaning they cannot be used in shops or banks. However, you can exchange them at the Bank of England or some banks if you have them.

Many retailers stopped accepting them after that date. If you find one, you can either keep it as a souvenir or exchange it for its face value at a bank.

What are the most valuable 2016 £1 coin varieties?

The most valuable 2016 £1 coin varieties include the rare 'mule' error coin, which features the old round design on the reverse but a new 12-sided blank, and coins with minting errors like double strikes or off-metal strikes. These can be worth thousands of pounds.

Additionally, proof and silver versions issued for collectors have higher values, especially if they come in original packaging with a certificate of authenticity. Always get any rare coin authenticated by a professional grading service.

Final Thoughts

The 2016 £1 coin is a piece of British numismatic history, marking the end of the round pound era. While most are worth only £1, the coin holds sentimental and historical value for many.

If you have a 2016 £1 coin, check for errors or special editions. Otherwise, it's a nice keepsake to remember the old coinage that served the UK for over 30 years.

For collectors, the transition to the 12-sided coin opened up new collecting opportunities, but the 2016 round pound remains a nostalgic reminder of the past.