British One Penny Coin (Modern Shield Reverse)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · None (Copper-plated steel alloy). The warm orange-brown hue is characteristic of oxidized copper, not gold.
Purity: 0% gold content based on visual identification as a standard copper-plated steel circulation coin. This is not a gold item.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
0% gold content based on visual identification as a standard copper-plated steel circulation coin. This is not a gold item.
Gold Type
None (Copper-plated steel alloy). The warm orange-brown hue is characteristic of oxidized copper, not gold.
Weight
3.56 grams (Standard weight for a 1p coin minted since 1992).
Description
A standard British decimal one penny coin featuring a segment of the Royal Shield of Arms. While the copper plating can mimic a very low-karat rose gold tone to the untrained eye, the lack of hallmarks and the presence of everyday currency motifs identify it as base metal circulation money.
Key Features
Features a portion of the Royal Shield (specifically the Irish Harp and English Lions segment); the words 'ONE PENNY' are visible on the left circumference.
Color & Finish
Copper-red to brown patina; satin finish from circulation with mild surface oxidation common in midtrace copper alloys.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. Features standard currency denominations and the Royal Shield design by Matthew Dent.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 20.3 mm and thickness of 1.65 mm; standard UK one penny specifications.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present.
Clasp & Closure
Plain, smooth edge consistent with modern UK low-denomination coinage.
Chain & Links
Not applicable (coin edge is smooth/plain).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck on a steel planchet with a multi-ton hydraulic press; copper-plated through an electroplating process.
Authentication Indicators
The design corresponds exactly to official UK currency; however, this is a base metal coin and contains no precious metal value.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales).
Era & Period
Contemporary (2008–present); features the Royal Shield of Arms reverse design introduced in 2008.
Age Estimate
Minted between 2008 and 2024 based on the Matthew Dent shield design.
Cultural Significance
Daily currency of the United Kingdom; the smallest denomination of the pound sterling system.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible surface micro-scratches and minor edge dings typical of pocket change. No significant corrosion.
Value Estimate
Nominal value of £0.01 GBP. No gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required as it is base metal; avoid cleaning with abrasives if keeping for a collection as this destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
Often confused with 1/10 oz Gold Sovereigns or Krugerrands due to similar size, but lacks the distinct reeded edges and high-purity yellow gold luster of those bullion coins.
Interesting Facts
The 'Shield' design is part of a larger jigsaw. When all six coins from 1p to 50p are placed together, they form the complete Royal Shield of Arms.