The 1807 £2 coin, released by the Royal Mint to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade, is one of the more fascinating coins for collectors. While the coin is celebrated for its design and historical significance, it is also known for a peculiar printing error that makes certain versions particularly valuable to numismatists. In this article, we explore the background of the coin, the nature of the error, and why it has become a sought-after piece for collectors.
The Background of the 1807 £2 Coin
In 2007, the Royal Mint issued a special £2 coin to commemorate the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, passed by the British Parliament in 1807. The coin’s design features a striking visual: a representation of a broken chain and shackles, symbolizing the end of the transatlantic slave trade. It also includes the inscription “1807” along with “AN ACT FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE TRADE.” Designed by David Gentleman, the coin honors one of the most pivotal moments in British and global history, marking the country’s legal efforts to end slavery.
On the reverse side of the coin, the abolition design is prominently displayed, while the obverse side bears the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. The coin is part of the United Kingdom’s bimetallic £2 coin series, with an outer nickel-brass ring and an inner cupronickel core.
The Printing Error: “Slave” vs “Save”
The printing error found on some 1807 £2 coins is relatively subtle but significant. In the inscription, where it should read “AN ACT FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE TRADE,” a number of coins mistakenly display the word “SAVE” instead of “SLAVE.” This small, single-letter discrepancy turns the phrase into “AN ACT FOR THE ABOLITION OF THE SAVE TRADE,” creating a puzzling and unintentional error that alters the entire meaning of the inscription.
This error is believed to have been caused during the minting process, likely due to a mistake in the engraving or die production. While errors of this nature are rare, they do occasionally happen in the world of coin minting, and when they do, they can significantly affect the value of the coin.
Why the Error Coin is Valuable
Coin collectors, known as numismatists, often seek out minting errors, as these coins are considered rarities. The 1807 £2 coin with the “SAVE” error is no exception. The scarcity of this version of the coin makes it highly desirable, and its unique historical context further adds to its appeal.
Coins with errors, especially those related to significant historical events, often become more valuable over time. The “SAVE” error, which has turned a phrase meant to celebrate a monumental humanitarian achievement into a somewhat nonsensical statement, has created a demand among collectors who find value in its distinctiveness and rarity.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Beyond the minting error, the 1807 £2 coin holds immense historical and cultural value. The abolition of the slave trade was a landmark event, and this coin serves as a reminder of the tireless efforts of activists like William Wilberforce and other abolitionists who fought to end the inhuman practice of slavery.
The error on this commemorative coin, while unintentional, has not detracted from the significance of its message. If anything, it has added another layer of intrigue to an already important piece of history. For many collectors, owning such a coin is not just about its monetary value but about holding a tangible piece of history, complete with its imperfections and human errors.
Conclusion
The 1807 £2 coin, issued to mark the bicentennial of the abolition of the slave trade, is a highly significant piece of numismatic history. While most of these coins were minted correctly, the rare version with the “SAVE” error has captured the attention of collectors. The printing error, though small, adds a unique twist to this historical coin, making it an intriguing and valuable item for those interested in British history and coin collecting alike. As the years pass, it is likely that the demand for this particular error coin will continue to grow, further cementing its place in the world of rare coins.