British Bronze Half Penny George V Circa 1911-1936
Coin (Numismatic/Circulated Coin) · None (Copper, Tin, and Zinc Alloy)
Purity: Not Gold (Base Metal Bronze Alloy)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulated Coin)
Purity
Not Gold (Base Metal Bronze Alloy)
Gold Type
None (Copper, Tin, and Zinc Alloy)
Weight
5.67 grams standard specification for a British halfpenny
Description
An authentic circulated British bronze halfpenny from the reign of King George V, displaying a rich dark patina and visible wear from circulation. The obverse showcases the crowned bust of the monarch facing left, while the reverse typically depicts Britannia seated with a trident. This historic piece reflects standard British monetary circulation of the pre-decimal era.
Key Features
Depicts King George V facing left with full surrounding Latin titling, struck in a durable copper-tin-zinc bronze composition rather than precious metal
Color & Finish
Dark patinated brown with significant toning and environmental surface accumulation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse features the effigy of King George V with inscription GEORGIVS V DEI GRA BRITT OMN REX FID DEF IND IMP
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 25.5 millimeters in diameter and 1.5 millimeters in thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None present on this base metal circulating coin
Clasp & Closure
Plain edge finish characteristic of standard British bronze coinage
Chain & Links
Not applicable; standard struck coin with circular blank preparation
Craftsmanship Details
Struck via high-pressure mechanical coin press using hardened steel dies, featuring standard mass-production coin detailing of the early 20th century
Authentication Indicators
Standard coin dimensions, weight, and design typography match authentic Royal Mint issues for the era, though it is crucially important to note this is a base metal bronze coin and not gold
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom, The Royal Mint, London
Era & Period
Early 20th Century, House of Windsor / Reign of King George V (1910-1936)
Age Estimate
Circa 1911 to 1936 based on the effigy and ruler legend
Cultural Significance
Representing the everyday medium of exchange for British citizens during the turbulent eras of World War I and the Great Depression, these coins were foundational to working-class life
Condition Notes
Heavily circulated with considerable dark toning, surface grime, and environmental wear. Graded as Fair to About Good (AG-3) numismatically due to smooth details and heavy wear
Value Estimate
Minimal numismatic or bullion value, typically ranging from $1 to $5 depending on exact year and condition, since the item contains no gold and exists in heavy circulated condition
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry, stable environment using inert numismatic holders or flips. Avoid cleaning, scrubbing, or chemical dips, as cleaning severely destroys numismatic value
Similar Items
British bronze pennies and farthings of the same era, as well as contemporaneous international copper-alloy circulating coinage
Interesting Facts
Despite frequent confusion by novices who mistake old darkened bronze and copper coins for gold due to lighting or patination, British halfpennies were strictly base metal currency used for daily commerce