British Cupro-Nickel Five Pence (Large Type), likely 1968-1990 Issue
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None. The silver color indicates a base metal alloy of copper and nickel with no gold content.
Purity: 0% (None). This item is not gold; it is struck in cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (None). This item is not gold; it is struck in cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel).
Gold Type
None. The silver color indicates a base metal alloy of copper and nickel with no gold content.
Weight
5.65 grams (Standard weight for the large-format 5p coin)
Description
A United Kingdom Five Pence coin featuring the Badge of Scotland, a crowned thistle. This is the 'large' version issued prior to the 1990 downsizing. Despite the user request focus on gold, this is a standard circulation base-metal coin used in daily British commerce historically.
Key Features
Crowned Thistle design by Christopher Ironside; 'FIVE PENCE' inscription; large 23.6mm module.
Color & Finish
Cool silver-grey/steel color; matte to slightly circulated luster with visible surface scratches and typical oxidation consistent with base metals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Coins use Mint Marks rather than jewelry hallmarks). It features the denomination 'FIVE PENCE' and the numeral '5'.
Dimensions Estimate
23.59 mm diameter; 1.7 mm thickness (Large type specifications)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Reeded/Milled edge)
Chain & Links
N/A; the edge of the coin is reeded (milled) to prevent fraudulent debasement.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure die impact; well-defined relief on the thistle petals and crown jewels.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typography for Royal Mint issues; standard cupro-nickel color; correct design for the pre-1990 five pence piece. Red flag: Incorrectly identifies as a gold item in the prompt context.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales)
Era & Period
Modern/Decimalization Era (Post-1968 UK)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1968 and 1990 (This large version was demonetized in 1990).
Cultural Significance
Represents the UK's shift to decimalization and incorporates the Thistle as a symbol of Scotland's identity within the Union.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible contact marks, minor rim nicks, and surface dulling from handling.
Value Estimate
Face value is 5p (though demonetized); Collector value is approximately $0.10 - $0.50 USD. Melt value is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; store in a dry environment to prevent 'verdigris' or nickel oxidation.
Similar Items
1990-Present Small 5p (18mm); Pre-Decimal Shilling (same size/alloy); Gold Proof Versions (rare, would be 22K and distinctly yellow).
Interesting Facts
When introduced in 1968, this coin was the exact same size, weight, and value as the old Shilling, causing them to circulate together for 22 years.