United Kingdom Five Pence (Reverse) - Circulated Cupro-Nickel Coin
Coin (Decimal Currency) · None; the item is cupro-nickel, displaying a standard metallic silver/white hue typical of British base-metal coinage.
Purity: Non-gold; 0% purity (Cupro-nickel alloy: 75% copper, 25% nickel). Visible silver-tone indicates no gold content.
Type
Coin (Decimal Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 0% purity (Cupro-nickel alloy: 75% copper, 25% nickel). Visible silver-tone indicates no gold content.
Gold Type
None; the item is cupro-nickel, displaying a standard metallic silver/white hue typical of British base-metal coinage.
Weight
3.25 grams (standard weight for post-1990 small-size five pence coins).
Description
A standard legal tender British five pence coin featuring the Badge of Scotland—a crowned thistle. While its silver-like appearance may be confused with white gold or silver by the untrained eye, it is a base-metal cupro-nickel circulation piece. This specific design was the work of Christopher Ironside and served as the 'tails' side of the coin for four decades.
Key Features
Crowned thistle motif; 'FIVE PENCE' lettering; '5' denomination; reeded edge; small 18mm diameter.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver color with a circulated satin finish. Visible surface scratches and minor edge dings consistent with general handling and circulation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (coins use minting strikes). Features the Badge of Scotland: a crowned thistle with the inscription 'FIVE PENCE' and the numeral '5'.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 18.0mm; Thickness: 1.7mm. (Small-format UK 5p).
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
None; reeded (milled) edge.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single solid struck planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by high-speed minting presses. Sharpness of the crown and thistle details suggests standard circulation strike quality rather than a Proof or Specimen finish.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic cupro-nickel color; correct strike depth for Royal Mint currency; non-precious patina; absence of fineness marks (e.g., 925 or 750).
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales).
Era & Period
Modern British Decimal (Post-1990). Design by Christopher Ironside first introduced in 1968 and resized in 1990.
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 1990 and 2008 (the years this specific 'Crowned Thistle' reverse was issued in this size).
Cultural Significance
Represents the decimalization of British currency and utilizes the thistle to honor Scotland's contribution to the United Kingdom.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; Very Good to Fine. Significant surface abrasions and bag marks are visible. No evidence of precious metal luster.
Value Estimate
Face value (5p GBP). Nominal collector value unless a specific rare date or error; melt value of copper/nickel is negligible (often less than face value).
Care & Maintenance
No special care required for base metal. For collectors, keep dry to avoid 'green rot' or spotting. Do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
Pre-1947 British Shillings (containing 50% silver) or the larger-format 5p (1968-1990). Can be visually mistaken for a 1/10oz Gold Britannia if plated, but this is a silver-toned base metal piece.
Interesting Facts
The 5p was the first decimal coin to be introduced in 1968, originally the same size as the old Shilling. The small version shown here was reduced in size in June 1990.