King George V British Silver Coin (likely Shilling or Florin), 1911-1919
Coin/Bullion · The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint has been the primary producer of British coinage for over 1,100 years, known for rigorous quality and purity standards.
Pattern: George V First Coinage Portrait by Sir Bertram Mackennal
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint has been the primary producer of British coinage for over 1,100 years, known for rigorous quality and purity standards.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Prior to 1920, British silver coinage was minted in high-grade sterling silver; after 1920, the purity was reduced to .500 (Quaternary silver).
Dimensions
Depending on denomination: Shilling (~23.5mm, 5.66g) or Florin (~28.5mm, 11.31g). Weight in troy ounces would be approximately 0.18 oz for a shilling.
Description
This is a circulating silver coin from the British Empire during the reign of George V. It showcases the iconic left-facing portrait by Mackennal. The high silver content of this specific era makes it a favorite among both numismatists and silver stackers. It represents the final era of the British gold/silver standard before post-WWI economic pressures forced a debasement of the currency's precious metal content.
Key Features
Bare-headed King George V effigy; 'DEI GRA' Latin inscription; sterling silver metallic luster (now heavily oxidized); denticulated rim.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Prior to 1920, British silver coinage was minted in high-grade sterling silver; after 1920, the purity was reduced to .500 (Quaternary silver).
Finish & Decoration
Struck coinage with a relief portrait (obverse). The design features a bare-headed bust of King George V facing left. The rim is denticulated (beaded border).
Hallmarks & Stamps
The obverse is inscribed 'GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX' (George V by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains). No silver hallmarks are used on coins as the denomination acts as the guarantee of fineness.
Construction Details
Die-struck at a high-pressure minting press. The planchet (metal disc) was punched from a rolled sheet of sterling silver and then struck between two steel dies.
Functional Features
Currency. Designed with a raised rim to protect the internal design from wear and a reeded edge (not visible in image) to prevent 'clipping' or shaving off silver.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (pocket currency).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting. The alignment of the dies and the clarity of the Latin abbreviations despite heavy wear indicate the precision of the Royal Mint's 20th-century toolmaking.
Authentication Indicators
The lettering style, portrait curvature, and wear pattern are consistent with genuine Royal Mint die-striking. The 'toning' (tarnish) is characteristic of .925 silver exposed to sulfur or skin oils over decades.
Origin & Manufacturing
London (Tower Hill) or Llantrisant (Wales), United Kingdom, produced by the Royal Mint.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century, George V era (1910-1936). The design reflects the transition from Victorian/Edwardian opulence to the more stoic, modern imperial style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1911-1919. The sterling silver composition and the specific 'DEI GRA' legend style place it within the first decade of George V's reign.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the height of the British Empire. These coins were used across colonial territories and represent the last 'honest' silver money of the British people before the 1920 debasement.
Condition Notes
Grade: Good to Very Good (Circulated). Visible heavy oxidation/tarnish. Significant surface wear on the high points of the hair, ear, and beard. Multiple small dings (bag marks) on the field and rim.
Value Estimate
Melt value (approx. $5-$10 USD depending on size and silver spot price). Numismatic value is low due to common date and heavy wear.
Care & Maintenance
For collectors, do NOT polish. Cleaning coins destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1920-1946 George V coins (distinguished by .500 silver content and 'flat' greyish color); Edward VII silver coins (different monarch portrait).
Interesting Facts
George V was the first British monarch to appear on coins without a crown in his 'standard' circulating portrait. This coin saw service during the Great War (WWI).