Gold-Plated/Gilt British Five Pence (5p) Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative/Alteration) · Likely Yellow Gold Plating/Gilt finish
Purity: Potential Decorative Plating; underlying metal is Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative/Alteration)
Purity
Potential Decorative Plating; underlying metal is Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Gold Type
Likely Yellow Gold Plating/Gilt finish
Weight
3.25 grams (Standard Weight for 1990-2008 British 5p)
Description
This is a standard British Five Pence coin featuring the Christopher Ironside reverse design of the Badge of Scotland. While the image shows a yellowish hue along the right edge, this is not a solid gold mint issue. It is either a cupro-nickel coin that has been post-mint gold plated for use in jewelry/novelty, or more likely, an image exhibiting 'gold toning' or lighting artifacts. The central body remains the standard silver-colored nickel-copper alloy.
Key Features
The Badge of Scotland (a crowned thistle) and the numeral '5'. The smaller post-1990 diameter.
Color & Finish
Silver-white base with suspicious yellow-toned edge gilding; Circulated finish with surface abrasions and a darkened batch spot near the letter 'E'
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; Stamped 'FIVE PENCE' and '5' with the Badge of Scotland (Crowned Thistle)
Dimensions Estimate
18.0 mm Diameter; 1.7 mm Thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge)
Chain & Links
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die-pressed coinage; standard Royal Mint circulation quality with clear relief on the thistle petals and crown cross.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: No official 5p coins were minted in solid gold for general circulation. The yellow hue on the edge suggests wear to a thin plating or light reflection. Weight would be significantly higher if solid 22K (approx. 5.5g+).
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales)
Era & Period
Modern British Decimalization (Design introduced in 1990)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1990 and 2008 (Pre-Matthew Dent Shield design)
Cultural Significance
A staple of British daily commerce from the late 20th century, representing the decimalization of the pound sterling.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated); visible micro-scratching on the field, minor rim dings, and a notable dark oxidation spot between the 'P' and 'E' of 'PENCE'.
Value Estimate
Face value (£0.05); Resale value as a novelty maybe $0.25-$1.00. No significant precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; if plated, gold layer will wear off quickly. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation of the base nickel alloy.
Similar Items
1968-1990 Large 5p coin; 2008 Royal Shield of Arms 5p; Gold Sovereign (which is actual 22K gold and a similar size).
Interesting Facts
The thistle design was chosen to represent Scotland and has been used on British coinage since the reign of James III in 1470.