Obverse

Reverse

2 Pence (Decimal)

Irish 2 Pence (Decimal Series)

Ireland · 1971

A bronze coin featuring the traditional Irish harp on the obverse and an ornate decorative bird motif from the Book of Kells on the reverse.

Country: Ireland
Year: 1971
Denomination: 2 Pence (Decimal)
Metal: Bronze (97% copper, 0.5% tin, 2.5% zinc)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified August 18, 2026More ireland coins →

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Overview

A bronze coin featuring the traditional Irish harp on the obverse and an ornate decorative bird motif from the Book of Kells on the reverse.

Historical significance

Introduced as part of the decimalisation of Irish currency on Decimal Day, February 15, 1971. This series replaced the pre-decimal Irish pound system, incorporating traditional Celtic art motifs symbolizing Irish heritage.

Obverse (front)

Features the traditional harp of Ireland (clarsach), with the legend 'éire' (Ireland) above and the year of issue '1971' below.

Reverse (back)

Features an intricate interlaced bird design derived from the ancient manuscript the Book of Kells, with the denomination '2p' below.

Estimated value

$0.25 - $2.00 in circulated to uncirculated condition

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade, presence of original mint luster, and lack of corrosion or environmental damage.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine / About Uncirculated (shows minor wear on high points with remaining original luster)

Mintage & rarity

Common; mintage for 1971 was approximately 59,573,000 pieces.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Common modern circulating coin, highly unlikely to be counterfeited due to low face value; check for weight and metallic composition if suspicious.

Notable varieties & errors

No major high-value errors or varieties are widely recognized for this date, though minor die cracks can occasionally be found.

Similar coins

Other Irish decimal bronze coins of the 1p, 2p, and 5p denominations from the same era.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place in a paper or inert plastic coin flip. Avoid cleaning to preserve original surface finish and value.

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