The new 12-sided £1 coin enters circulation today. Aside from looking really cool (see ya later, rounded edges!) it’s got a whole host of hi-tech features, which you can find out about on the website introducing the coin.
They include milled edges, a hologram and wait, what’s this? A “hidden high security feature”? It sounds like something out of James Bond if you ask us.
Seeing as this hidden high security feature is so hilariously vague, people are rushing to suggest what it could be.
Some are taking the security thing pretty seriously.
Discussing the new pound coin with the boy. He's decided the hidden security feature is that each coin contains a tiny police officer.
— Hippyjim (@hippyjim) February 26, 2017
For others, their first thought is obviously about Brexit.
The secret design feature in the new £1 coin means that when article 50 is triggered it magically transforms into 20p. #clever
— Tudur Owen (@Tudur) March 26, 2017
Is the “hidden security feature” in the new £1 coin the fact that it’s worth next to nothing post-Brexit decision?
— Gabriel Webber (@gabrielquotes) March 19, 2017
The more suspicious types out there think it involves some kind of chip or tracker, which is an alarming prospect.
“hidden high security feature” – so a chip in a coin, right? https://t.co/Pb2FUmdcfT can’t wait to get my hands on one
— leap second expert (@jasiek_) March 27, 2017
"Hidden high security feature" is a rfid in every coin. Get tracked like never before with the new pound. https://t.co/ooLSYQVXLF
— Jay Wren (@JayRWren) March 27, 2017
But not everyone is so paranoid – some think that the Royal Mint is just having us on.
My bet is that there isn't a 'hidden high security feature' on the new pound coin and that they are fooling us all! #bluff
— Molly (@MOLLIOTT) March 27, 2017
Unfortunately it looks like this “hidden security feature” won’t help in many of the early teething problems expected at coin-operated machines. Be careful next time you get the munchies and hit up the vending machine, because some will not immediately accept the new coin.
The old coin and the new coin will co-exist together for a period of around six months, until the round pound ceases to be legal tender on October 15.
