Exotic Hong Kong, now part of China, was under British authority starting in the mid 1800s all the way to 1997. As such, coins from British Hong Kong carry the reigning monarch's portait on one side.

The 1, 5, 10, 20 and some of the 50 cent denominations have the same pattern on the back of the coin. The words HONG-KONG and the denomination encircle four Chinese characters. Some 50 cent coins have four Chinese characters, but they are not at the center. Recent issues sometimes sport wavy edges. Different metals are used, including copper, 80% silver, brass, and nickel.

Even though they are exotic, most of these coins are worth only a dollar or two US. As always, coins in better shape, with little wear, no problems, and attractive eye appeal are worth much more than coins that are below par.

The listings below give catalog values in US dollars for problem-free coins in average circulated condition. Coins that are worn will be worth about one-half these values, often less. Conversely, well-preserved coins will be worth three or four times these values. Individual dates are not very important, except as called out below. This page applies only to coins with a British monarch and 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent denominations. Other denominations, such as half dollar and dollar, are not covered here.

These are inflated catalog values. Use our Important Terminology page to fully understand what this tricky weasel word means.

1 CENT:
before 1900: $10
1902 to 1919: $5
1923 to 1926: $3
1931 to 1934: $1
after 1934: less than $1
1941: $2500 (a very rare coin)

5 CENTS:
before 1882: $10
1881 to 1905: $3
after 1905: less than $1
1941H: $750 (a rare coin)
1941KN: $300 (a rare coin)

10 CENTS:
before 1883: $10
1883 to 1905: $3
1935 and 1936: $1
after 1936: less than $1
1864: $550
1866 (last 6 over 5): $120
1872H: $25
1905: $400

20 CENTS:
before 1884: $30
1884 to 1901: $18
1902 and 1904: $40
after 1904: less than $1
1879: $550
1880H: $125
1881: $275
1905: $600

50 CENTS:
before 1902: $60
1902 to 1905: $30
1951: $2
1952 to date: less than $1
1892H: $125 (must have H mint mark)

Half dollars and dollars are not covered on this page.