British Three-Pence (Threepenny Bit) Silver Plate/Brass Commemorative Token
Coin/Bullion (Token) · Royal Mint (Original Design Influence), British Government
Pattern: Elizabeth II Pre-Decimalization Currency Style
Type
Coin/Bullion (Token)
Maker
Royal Mint (Original Design Influence), British Government
Material
Likely low-grade silver-plated brass or nickel-brass; notably yellowish/copper hue suggests base metal exposure.
Dimensions
Standard size approx 21.85mm diameter; estimated weight 6.8 grams.
Description
This item is a 12-sided dodecagonal coin known as a three-pence piece. It features the young bust of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a laurel wreath. While silver-toned in some lights, the visible oxidation and brassy undertones indicate it is not sterling silver but rather a base metal alloy common for circulation.
Key Features
12-sided shape; Mary Gillick portrait; Latin inscription including 'F.D' (Fidei Defensor).
Material & Composition
Likely low-grade silver-plated brass or nickel-brass; notably yellowish/copper hue suggests base metal exposure.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a raised bust of Queen Elizabeth II (Mary Gillick portrait); featuring a dodecagonal (12-sided) shape.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks; stamped with 'ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F:D+' around the circumference.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-cast production; typical of mid-20th-century industrial minting.
Functional Features
Dodecagonal edge designed for ease of tactile identification for the visually impaired.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Coin/Token form factor.
Craftsmanship Details
High-relief industrial die-striking; crisp lettering despite significant surface tarnish.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font and portraiture for Royal Mint pre-decimal currency; wear patterns consistent with pocket circulation.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (London or Llantrisant), Royal Mint.
Era & Period
Early Elizabethan / Pre-Decimal Era (Post-1953)
Age Estimate
Circa 1953-1970 (Pre-decimalization era production).
Cultural Significance
A staple of British currency before the 1971 'Decimal Day'; represented a significant shift in tactile coin design in the UK.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair condition. Significant surface wear, loss of original luster, and heavy oxidation (tarnish) showing brass/copper-colored base metal.
Value Estimate
$0.50 - $5.00 depending on exact year and metal content (Circulated value).
Care & Maintenance
Do not over-clean or use abrasive silver dips as this will further strip the remaining plating and damage the numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Silver Threepence (pre-1947) which were round and made of .500 silver; modern £1 coins which adopted the 12-sided shape in 2017.
Interesting Facts
The 12-sided 3d bit was so popular it remained legal tender until 1971; it was often colloquially called the 'Joey'.