Coin | Ten Pence 1994 (mint sets only) |
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The British decimal ten pence (10p) coin - often pronounced ten pee - is a unit of currency equalling ten one-hundredths of a pound sterling.
The coin was first issued in 1968 before the currency was decimalised, to circulate in parallel with the florin (two shillings) coin it eventually replaced. Its dimensions were the same as those of the florin, and the florin remained current after 1970, re-denominated as ten new pence.
After a review of the United Kingdom coinage in 1987, the Government announced its intention to issue a smaller 10p coin, which was first issued on 30 September 1992. The original (large) version of the ten pence coin was demonetised together with the florin in 1993 and replaced with a smaller version, which retained the original design by Christopher Ironside.
These small ten pence coins were minted from cupronickel (75% Cu, 25% Ni). In 2008, a new 10p design by Matthew Dent was introduced, initially in copper-nickel as well, then in nickel-plated steel after 2012. However, the old-type small coins are still legal tender; the 10p coin is legal tender for amounts up to £5.
No ten pence coins were issued for circulation in 1994. |
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Obverse | |
The obverse of the coin shows the crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth II, facing right (her effigy known as the "Third Portrait"). The Queen is wearing the royal diadem which she wears on her way to and from the State Opening of Parliament, a pearl necklace and earrings.
Incuse in tiny letters on the neck truncation, the designer's initials RDM (for Raphael David Maklouf).
Around, the monarch's legend and the date of issue: ELIZABETH II D · G · REG · F · D · 1994. Translated from Latin: Elizabeth the Second, by the grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith 1994.
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Reverse | |
Part of the crest of England, formally lion passant guardant royally crowned (i.e. a crowned walking lion to left, facing). The numeral value 10 is below the lion, and the value and denomination in words: TEN PENCE are around above. |
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Reverse Inscription |
10 TEN PENCE |
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Edge | Milled | Edge Inscription | None |
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Issued in Set |
1994 United Kingdom Brilliant Uncirculated Coin Collection, mintage 177,971 8 coins: £2 Bank of England, £1 Scottish Lion, 50p D-Day, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p, 1p
- variety: 1994 United Kingdom Brilliant Uncirculated Coin Collection (Baby Gift Set), mintage unknown (included in the above set) |
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