Irish 5 Pence (5p) Bull Coin, Cupro-Nickel (Base Metal)
Coin (Circulation Currency) · None. The silver-colored appearance is due to the nickel-copper alloy.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This is a cupro-nickel base metal coin composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It contains no gold content.
Type
Coin (Circulation Currency)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This is a cupro-nickel base metal coin composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It contains no gold content.
Gold Type
None. The silver-colored appearance is due to the nickel-copper alloy.
Weight
5.65 grams (Standard weight for the 1969-1990 large type)
Description
A standard circulation Irish 5 pence coin featuring the iconic 'Bull' design by Percy Metcalfe. Originally derived from the 1928 Saorstát Éireann coinage, this decimal version was used in Ireland until the coin was reduced in size in 1992 and eventually replaced by the Euro in 2002. It has no gold or precious metal value.
Key Features
Stylized bull facing left based on the 'Blackrock' bull design; '5P' denomination; raised rim; reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver-grey with a dull luster; shows significant surface scratches, oxidation, and contact marks from circulation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No gold hallmarks. Denominated as '5P' (5 Pence) on reverse. Obverse (not shown) would feature the Irish Harp and 'Éire'.
Dimensions Estimate
23.59 mm diameter; 1.7 mm thickness (Standard Irish 5p specifications prior to 1992 resizing).
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin).
Chain & Links
Reeded edge (milled) typical of Irish circulation coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced circulation strike. The dies show standard 20th-century industrial minting techniques with moderate relief and block-style typography.
Authentication Indicators
The '5P' stamp and bull motif are consistent with Irish cupro-nickel coinage. The color is characteristic of nickel-copper alloys, not white gold or silver. No precious metal hallmarks are present.
Origin & Maker
Ireland (Republic of); Minted at the Central Bank of Ireland (Dublin) or Royal Mint (UK) depending on specifically year.
Era & Period
Contemporary Republic of Ireland (Pre-Decimal/Decimal transition era, design introduced in 1969).
Age Estimate
Circa 1969–1990 (Production dates for this specific large-module bull design).
Cultural Significance
The 'Barnyard Collection' of Irish coins is world-renowned for its artistic depiction of Irish fauna, reflecting the nation's agricultural heritage.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Fine. Shows significant 'bag marks,' surface abrasions, and loss of original mint luster. Not a numismatic 'Proof' or 'Uncirculated' specimen.
Value Estimate
Face value is obsolete. Numismatic value is approximately $0.10 to $0.50 USD. It has zero melt value in terms of gold.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required as it is base metal. Avoid harsh chemicals for cleaning which can cause 'environmental damage' to the surface.
Similar Items
1928-1968 Irish Shilling (same design, 75% silver until 1943, then cupro-nickel); Small-type Irish 5p (post-1992).
Interesting Facts
The bull design was originally created for the 1928 Irish shilling. When Ireland decimalized in 1971, the shilling became the 5p coin and kept the animal motif to aid the public with the transition.