Introduction:

The silver threepences of George V are very popular amongst collectors and are readily available in coin dealers’ bulk boxes, and at coin fairs, exhibitions and car boot sales. The first type (sterling issues) are much softer than their later (50% silver) counterparts and wear more easily, thus coins in the higher grades are worth a substantial premium.

Silver Threepence: George V

• Alloy: Sterling Silver (92.5% silver)
• Weight: 1.41g
• Diameter: 16mm
• Edge: Plain

1911 GB & Ireland silver threepence (George V)

Obverse:

• Bare head of King George V facing left
  • Legend:
    • GEORGIVS V D.G.BRITT:OMN:REX F.D.IND:IMP:
  • Full text in Latin:
    • GEORGIVS V DEI GRATIA BRITANNIARUM OMNIUM REX FIDEI DEFENSOR INDIAE
  • Translation:
    • George V, by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India
• Designer / Engraver: Bertram MacKennal

Reverse

• Royal crown above the number ‘3’, with the date divided to either side.
• A wreath with a bow at the base surrounds the main design
• Designer / Engraver: Jean Merlen

Mintage & Market Values:

1911-1920 George V, Sterling (92.5%) Silver Threepence (Mintage & Market Values)

Notes:

In 1920, the Royal Mint issued 16,703,597 silver threepences – some were 92.5% silver and the later issues were 50% silver. There is no data re how many of each type was minted. Both types are common.

How to tell the difference between the two types:

The image is sharper on the Sterling (92.5%) issue. These coins are so small, there is no noticeable difference in weight, diameter or thickness – despite the change in alloy.

Further Reading:

• Sterling Silver
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Ireland Silver Threepence of William IV
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Ireland Silver Threepence of Victoria
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Ireland Silver Threepence of Edward VII
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Ireland Silver Threepence of George V, Part 1

• 50% Silver
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Ireland Silver Threepence of George V, Part 2
  • O’Brien Coin Guide: GB & Northern Ireland Silver Threepence of George VI