D G REG F D 1978 Elizabeth II New Pence 'Ich Dien' 2 Pence?

Question

This is a website that tells you about the coin.

http://www.kaboodle.com/hidden_treasures/world-coin-collection/british-two-pence-coins-1976-1980

I don't remember where I got it. It may have been lopped in my piggy bank (stripped oatmeal can rather). But I was curious about it. It says, "These coins are rather rare, and are considered as collector items."

My question is how rare? Where does it come from? I would assume England since it has Elizabeth II on it, if so, why does it have the German saying ICH DIEN (I serve) on the back?

Please and Thank You ;)

Answer 1

If  you read it again it actually says on that site that the 1982 coin which says "new pence" is rare...because it should say two pence....therefore they are the coins which are collectors pieces not the 1978 one that you have.

Answer 2

Deo Gratia, Regina, Fidei Defensor.

By the grace of God, the Queen, Defender of the Faith.

Some of these are still in circulation. They are very common, and worth 2p each.

They come from the Royal Mint.

"Ich Dien" is Welsh, and translates as "Everyone".

Answer 3

Looks like a normal 2p to me...they all say 'Ich dien'. Only difference is that this is an old one which says 'New Pence' instead of today's 'Two Pence'. We still have them in circulation today. It says 'Ich dien' because it has the Prince of Wales' feathers on it and 'Ich dien' is the motto that goes along with this symbol.

Answer 4

Can't answer all of you question, but Ich Dien is the motto of the Prince of Wales.  His badge is a ribbon, with that written on it, and three fluffy plumes sticking out of the top.  Haven't seen it before?  try google.  or here:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_of_W...

Is 1978 the year he was invested as Prince of Wales?  Seems to me that would be why.  A commemorative coin for the event.

*edit*Oops!  Nope.  investiture was 1969, so that's not it.

You need a more serious numismatist to tell you exactly how rare.  I assume from your description that it's in some kind of case?  If it is still sealed, it is worth much more than if you took it out and played with it.