As the new year begins and household budgets feel the strain, a simple financial lifeline could be gathering dust in your drawers. A leading currency expert has revealed that millions of Britons are sitting on a hidden cash reserve in the form of forgotten foreign coins and notes from past holidays.
The Hidden Value in Your Home
Mario Van Poppel, owner and founder of LeftoverCurrency.com, explains that the average UK household could be overlooking between £50 to £100 in leftover travel money. "People don't realise how quickly this adds up," he said. This overlooked stash could provide a much-needed buffer against post-holiday expenses and rising costs.
Van Poppel emphasises that even coins from years ago retain value, and some older banknotes can be worth more than their face value to collectors. This is particularly true for obsolete currencies like the German Deutsche Mark or the Spanish Peseta. "You might think they're worthless, but we can exchange or even sell them for their collectable value," he added.
How to Convert Old Currency into Cash
Turning this forgotten money into usable pounds is simpler than many assume. Van Poppel offers clear steps to maximise your return this January.
First, gather and sort all your old coins and notes by country. This makes assessing their value straightforward. Next, check carefully for any obsolete or rare items. Pre-Euro currencies and older coins are often sought after by collectors.
It's also crucial to act quickly with expiring currencies, such as older paper British £20 and £50 notes, to avoid losing their face value entirely. Finally, use a dedicated service like Leftover Currency, as high street banks frequently refuse obscure or outdated coins.
Stretch Your January Budget with Found Money
For many, converting this dormant travel money can offer genuine financial relief. "We've seen people use the money to pay bills, fund a family meal, or top up travel savings for the year ahead," Mr Van Poppel said.
In an era of persistent inflation, every pound recovered makes a difference. "It's like finding money you didn't know you had," he noted, warning that these coins and notes often sit forgotten for years. His final advice is clear: "The sooner you exchange them, the sooner you can make use of the money."
Your old holiday currency isn't just a souvenir; it's an untapped resource to help you start 2026 on a stronger financial footing.
