2 British Pound Coin (Old Style) – All designs

The original British £2 coin was introduced in 1986 as a commemorative denomination struck in a single-metal nickel-brass finish. Unlike today’s bi-metallic £2 coin (introduced for circulation in 1997/1998), these earlier issues were not produced for everyday mass circulation in the same way, although many did enter general use over time.

The obverse of the old-style £2 coin features the portrait of the reigning monarch, including effigies of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin and later Raphael Maklouf. The edge is milled and typically carries an inscription specific to the commemorative theme.

We accept ALL versions of the old single-metal £2 coins, including the major commemorative designs issued between 1986 and 1996. These include, for example:

• 1986 Commonwealth Games (Edinburgh)

• 1989 Bill of Rights (Tercentenary)

• 1989 Claim of Right (Scotland)

• 1994 Bank of England Tercentenary

• 1995 United Nations 50th Anniversary

• 1995–1996 50th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War

• 1996 European Football Championship

Although these coins were originally commemorative issues, they remain legal tender. However, they are less commonly seen in everyday circulation today and are often found in coin collections, charity tins, fundraising buckets, or long-stored savings jars.

Many banks place restrictions on bulk coin deposits or may not readily process older commemorative denominations over the counter. If you would like to exchange foreign coins and notes, our UK-based service provides a simple way to process surplus UK and overseas currency.

• Indicate the quantity of old style £2 coins you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Older commemorative coins frequently accumulate unnoticed in homes, businesses, and charity collections. We exchange leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses across the UK, offering a secure and efficient way to convert surplus coins into pounds instead of leaving them stored, sorted, or restricted by traditional banking limits.