Gold-Plated/Gilded British Five Pence Coin
Coin (Gilded/Novelty Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (Plating). The hue is a classic rich gold color achieved through electroplating over a silver-toned base metal.
Purity: Likely 24K Gold Plated (Gilded). This item is not solid gold; it is a base metal (cupro-nickel) coin that has been electroplated with a thin layer of gold, likely less than 0.1% of its total weight.
Type
Coin (Gilded/Novelty Numismatic)
Purity
Likely 24K Gold Plated (Gilded). This item is not solid gold; it is a base metal (cupro-nickel) coin that has been electroplated with a thin layer of gold, likely less than 0.1% of its total weight.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Plating). The hue is a classic rich gold color achieved through electroplating over a silver-toned base metal.
Weight
3.25 grams (Standard weight for a post-1990 5p coin). The weight is derived from its cupro-nickel core rather than gold content.
Description
An attractive example of a British Five Pence coin that has been secondary-market gilded. It features the iconic crowned thistle—the Badge of Scotland—surmounted by the Royal Crown. The high-polish gold finish elevates common circulation currency into a decorative novelty item often sold in gift sets or used in jewelry like cufflinks.
Key Features
Gilded yellow finish over a cupro-nickel base; Crowned Thistle reverse design; Small-module 18mm diameter.
Color & Finish
High-luster yellow gold finish with a reflective field. Surface shows minor scratches and a slightly oily patina typical of handled gilded coins.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No gold hallmarks present. The coin features the standard '5', 'FIVE PENCE', and the Badge of Scotland (crowned thistle) mark of the Royal Mint.
Dimensions Estimate
18.00 mm diameter and 1.70 mm thickness. This is the 'small' version of the 5p coin introduced in 1990.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely metallic relief featuring the Badge of Scotland.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge. The coin features vertical milling (reeding) along its circumference for security and grip.
Chain & Links
Not Applicable (Solid metal disc). The edge is reeded, consistent with Royal Mint specifications for this denomination.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by The Royal Mint with high-pressure dies; secondary electroplating shows good coverage but reveals the underlying strike imperfections of a circulation coin.
Authentication Indicators
The physical dimensions and design confirm it is a legal tender 5p coin. The lack of hallmark and the yellow hue against the reeded edges suggest it is gold-plated rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales). Gilded after-market by a third-party company.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Decimalization). The design was created by Christopher Ironside and used on the smaller 5p from 1990-2008.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1990 and 2008 based on the reverse design and dimensions.
Cultural Significance
Represents the decimalization of British currency and the heraldic traditions of the United Kingdom, specifically Scotland's place within the Union.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated/Handled). Minor surface bag marks and light scratches are visible under the plating, suggesting it may have been gilded after some circulation.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00 (negligible gold). Market Value: $1.00 - $3.00 as a novelty item. Primarily decorative value rather than investment value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners or polishing cloths as the gold layer is extremely thin and will rub off. Clean with a soft damp cloth only.
Similar Items
Solid 22K Gold Proof 5p Coins (much heavier and thicker); 24K Gold Plated 10p coins; standard cupro-nickel 5p currency.
Interesting Facts
The thistle became the symbol of Scotland in the 13th century; legend says a Norse invader stepped on one and cried out, alerting the Scottish defenders.