Why does everyone want the new Kitchener £2?

Since its release into general circulation a few weeks ago, the new First World War £2 has really caused a stir amongst coin collectors. And it is easy to see why.

The famous ‘Your Country Needs You’ poster featuring Lord Kitchener was originally used during the First World War campaign for enlistment.  The enduring image of Kitchener’s pointing finger, stern face and distinguished moustache has grown to become a symbol of wartime Britain and of national pride and it is rare to see such an iconic design on a circulation coin.

The familiarity of the image poses a problem for collectors; it is undoubtedly a stand-out design and one which is likely to be taken out of circulation by both collectors and the general public alike.

When you consider that it is also the very first coin to be issued as part of the Royal Mint’s five year programme commemorating the the First World War, the chances of finding one in your change appear to be slim.

The new Kitchener £2 has been selling on eBay for over 3 times its face value

A quick look on eBay will tell you everything you need to know about the popularity of the Kitchener £2, which has been exchanging hands for in excess of three times its face value. Whilst the final mintage will remain unknown for some time, the consensus is that this will certainly be one to keep for years to come.