Threepence, Second Design, Coin Type from United Kingdom - detailed information

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.

The updated reverse design introduced in 1887 is a re-touched version of Jean Baptiste Merlen's earlier design, with the main difference being the different shape of the crown.

Coins of the same size and virtually the same design (but with proof-like finish) have been issued regularly since 1817 and continue to be released every year as part of Maundy sets; these are listed separately under Maundy Threepence in the NCLT section; apart from the surface quality, they are indistinguishable.

Until 1920, the composition was Sterling Silver (0.925 silver), with 0.0420 oz ASW (ounce of Absolute Silver Weight). This was then debased to 50% in 1921.

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.