Threepence, Oak Sprigs, Coin Type from United Kingdom - detailed information

Threepence, Oak Sprigs, Coin Type from United Kingdom (issued 1927 - 1936)
Coin TypeThreepence, Oak Sprigs

The pre-decimal threepence (3d), usually simply known as a threepence or threepenny bit, was a unit of currency equalling one eightieth of a pound sterling, or three pence sterling. It was used in the United Kingdom, and earlier in Great Britain and England.

Maundy Threepence have been issued for centuries (they are still being struck today for ceremonial purposes), and initially the circulating threepence were identical in design. Starting in 1927, they were made different - this new design featuring three oak sprigs was developed for the circulating coins, while the Maundy threepence continued with the traditional crowned numeral reverse.

The composition is 0.500 silver, with 0.0227 oz ASW (ounces of Absolute Silver Weight).

This type was only issued for King George V. A new reverse featuring a Tudor rose was introduced for King George IV. The coins remained in circulation until "Decimal Day", 15 February 1971, and ceased to be legal tender after 31 August 1971. Unlike some of the larger denominations, they were not re-denominated to a decimal value when the decimal Pound Sterling was introduced.

Obverse
United Kingdom / Threepence, Oak Sprigs - obverse photo

Effigy of the ruling British monarch, legend (in Latin).

During the existence of this coin type, it was only issued for King George V.

Obverse Inscription GEORGIVS V D. G. BRITT: OMN: REX F. D. IND: IMP:
Reverse
United Kingdom / Threepence, Oak Sprigs - reverse photo

The reverse design of the coin features, within a beaded border, three sprigs of oak - intertwined and ending with three acorns.

In the centre, there is a tiny letter G.

Around above, divided by one of the acorns, the value and denomination: THREE · · PENCE ·; around below, the date of issue: · [year] ·.

Reverse Inscription THREE PENCE · [year] ·
EdgePlainEdge InscriptionNone
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Threepence, Oak Sprigs: Details
CountryUnited Kingdom
CurrencyPound Sterling (pre-decimal)
Sub-type ofThreepence, Circulating
From1927
To1936
Face Value3 (x Penny)
CurrentNo (demonetised 1971)
Material0.500 Silver
DesignerGeorge Kruger Gray
TechnologyMilled (machine-made)
ShapeRound
OrientationCoin Alignment (Axis 6)
Size
Mass1.4100 g
Threepence, Oak Sprigs: Photos
ImageDetails
Threepence, Oak Sprigs: Photo Coin - Threepence, George V, Great Britain, 1928 Coin - Threepence, George V, Great Britain, 1928
Copyright: Museums Victoria / CC BY
Author:
Source
Threepence, Oak Sprigs: Photo Coin - Threepence, George V, Great Britain, 1928 Coin - Threepence, George V, Great Britain, 1928
Copyright: Museums Victoria / CC BY
Author:
Source