Over the decades coins and banknotes in the UK have changed in their design several times, meaning there are some still floating about that are no longer legal tender.

Whether they're behind the sofa, at the bottom of some drawer or in an old piggy bank there's a chance people have old coins lying around their house.

There are a few ways you can trade them in so that they don't go to waste and can add to your bank account.

What to do with old coins in the UK?

For those who want to trade their old coins and banknotes, there are a few institutions you can go to.

On the Royal Mint website, it says: "Most high-street banks in the United Kingdom are willing to accept demonetised coins from their customers.

"Larger Post Office branches are usually willing to accept demonetised coins in exchange for goods and services.

"Please be aware, however, they are under no legal obligation to do so."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Post Office told Saga Money: “We do still accept ‘old’ pound coins over the counter – but they have to be in good condition. And people can deposit them into their bank account.

“The Post Office has an agreement with over 30 banks and building societies known as the ‘Banking Framework’ which allows customers of these banks and building societies to withdraw cash, deposit cash, deposit cheques or check their balance at any of our 11,500 Post Offices.”

You can check whether your bank or building society participates in this scheme at the Post Office website.

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Alongside those two main options, you can also donate your old coins to charity.

Many charities actually welcome old coins and banknotes, and you can check their websites on how to send them in.

Alternatively, if some of your coins have rare designs you could sell them online, as some fetch a decent price for collectors.