By UK Coins
News & Updates
The Royal Mint has launched something entirely new for 2026: The Great British Treasure Hunt. Combining numismatics with code-breaking, this interactive experience invites the nation to solve a series of riddles for a chance to win a massive 250g gold bar.
Inspired by Sir Isaac Newton—who was not only a scientific genius but also Master of the Royal Mint—this challenge tests your logic, observation, and puzzle-solving skills. Here is everything you need to know about how to enter and what you can win.
Table of Contents
How It Works: 5 Levels of Mystery
The Treasure Hunt is split into five distinct levels. Progressing through them requires a mix of online puzzle solving and physical evidence found on the commemorative coin.
Level 1: Discovery (Free)
Status: Open to Everyone
The first level is accessible online for free via The Royal Mint's dedicated microsite. It serves as a taster for the challenges ahead.
Levels 2-5: Explorer (Coin Required)
Status: Requires Purchase
To unlock the remaining four levels, you must purchase the "The Penny Drops" £5 coin. The coin's packaging contains unique access codes, and the coin itself holds visual clues necessary to solve the advanced riddles.
The Grand Prize: 250g Gold Bar
A Prize Fit for a Master
The winner will receive a 250g solid gold bar. At current market rates, this prize is valued between £28,000 and £31,000.
- 250g Fine Gold (999.9)
- Stamped with The Royal Mint refinery mark
- Tax-free prize for UK residents
"The Penny Drops" £5 Coin
The key to the treasure hunt is the new £5 coin, dubbed "The Penny Drops". It features a design inspired by Sir Isaac Newton. It is available in two main finishes required for entry:
Brilliant Uncirculated
The standard entry level.
£22.50
Includes fold-out packaging with your unique game codes.
Silver Proof
Limited Edition (5,000 minted)
£149.50
Includes premium packaging and game codes.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Don't miss youre chance to win. Make sure you complete all levels before the deadline.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Treasure Hunt Launch | January 29, 2026 (09:00 GMT) |
| Competition Opens (Gold Prize) | February 5, 2026 (10:00 GMT) |
| Entry Deadline | March 30, 2026 (23:59 BST) |
| Winner Selection | March 31, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it open to international players?
Anyone over 18 can purchase the coin and play the game for fun, but only residents of the United Kingdom are eligible to enter the prize draw to win the gold bar.
How is the winner chosen?
It is not a race. The winner is not the first person to finish. Instead, everyone who successfully completes Levels 2 through 5 before the closing date is entered into a random prize draw.
Can I help others?
The code-breaking community often works together, but be careful not to share your unique access codes found in your coin's packaging, as these are one-time use for your entry.
Ready to start the hunt?
Visit The Royal Mint Official Site