You might be sitting on a small fortune without realising it: Rare coin specialists highlight the value of certain coins

This WWI-era coin might look ordinary at first, but according to gold traders at Tavex Bullion, it could be worth an impessive £30,000 in good condition.

Coin collectors could be sitting on a small fortune without realising it, according to rare coin specialists.

They are highlighting the value of certain coins, including the 1917 George V Gold Sovereign.

The WWI-era coin might look ordinary at first glance, but according to gold traders at Tavex Bullion, it could be worth an impessive £30,000 in good condition.

"Minted during WWI, most of these coins were melted down to settle war debts," the experts wrote in an online blog.

"Today, they’re a testament to wartime sacrifice and economic strategy."

During the war, the British government issued bonds to raise funds, with many US investors buying them and receiving interest in gold.

The Royal Mint suspects that a significant amount of this gold was comprised of coins like the 1917 sovereign, although the exact amount is unknown.

"It is also possible that some 1917 London sovereigns were sent to the American government to pay for war debts, as gold sovereigns were commonly used in international trade at the time," experts at the Royal Mint add.

"These factors contribute to the scarcity of the 1917 gold sovereign struck in London and consequently make it a highly valuable and sought-after coin among collectors."

If you don't have a 1917 at home, don't worry. There are plenty more coins worth searching your attic for.

Take for example a 1933 coin that recently fetched an astonishing £140,000 due to its extreme rarity, with only seven known specimens worldwide.

Chris Yang, Co-founder of Coins Value, previously told The Star: "In sum, scrutinise your coins, have them identified and graded professionally, and work with experienced numismatists to determine the real value of your coins so that you can sell them for the best price.

"Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn't always about striking gold; it's about connecting with history and uncovering hidden treasures. Your old coin jar might hold more than just spare change – it could be a portal to a fascinating past."

However, he also added: "If the coin you own is highly important, the best practice is to hold onto it unless the need to raise money is urgent. The better issues of these important coins gain in value over time.

"The prices of these scarce coins are subject to some uncertainty based on alterations in the overall market and economy. When selling, shop around various dealers and obtain the best price.

"An auction house is considered to achieve the maximum value for really spectacular pieces. Be prepared to pay a 10-20% commission on the selling price."