King George V British Silver Coin (likely Florin or Half Crown)
Coin/Bullion · The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint is one of the world's oldest minting institutions, established over 1,100 years ago.
Pattern: George V Left-Facing Uncrowned Portrait by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint is one of the world's oldest minting institutions, established over 1,100 years ago.
Material
British Silver Currency. Depending on the date (not visible on the obverse), it is either Sterling Silver (.925) for coins dated 1911-1919, or 'Quaternary' Silver (.500) for coins dated 1920-1936.
Dimensions
If a Florin: 28.5mm, 11.31g. If a Half Crown: 32.3mm, 14.14g. If a Shilling: 23.5mm, 5.65g. Based on the scale relative to the wood grain, it likely represents a mid-to-large denomination.
Description
A classic piece of British numismatic history, this silver coin features the dignified, bearded profile of King George V. These coins circulated widely throughout the British Empire and represent the transition of the silver standard from high-purity sterling to the debased .500 silver necessitated by the economic strain of World War I.
Key Features
Uncrowned 'Large Head' portrait; specific Latin legend with 'BRITT: OMN:' indicating the King's rule over the entire British Empire; distinct beaded rim.
Material & Composition
British Silver Currency. Depending on the date (not visible on the obverse), it is either Sterling Silver (.925) for coins dated 1911-1919, or 'Quaternary' Silver (.500) for coins dated 1920-1936.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated coinage finish. Features a relief portrait of King George V in profile, facing left. The legend includes the Latin abbreviation GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX (George V by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains). Beaded border (dentils) around the rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not applicable as a hallmark, but signed 'B.M.' on the truncation of the neck (often faint on circulated coins) for Edgar Bertram Mackennal. Mint markings would depend on the reverse side.
Construction Details
Die-struck on a prepared planchet (flan) using mechanical heavy-duty minting presses.
Functional Features
Milled edge (reeding) to prevent 'clipping' or shaving off silver from the edges; legal tender denomination markings on the reverse.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard round coin format.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-sinking by the Royal Mint; even under heavy wear, the alignment and strike remain centered and legible.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font/typography for the period; natural 'circulation patina' where dirt has accumulated in the letters; correct anatomical details of the Mackennal portrait.
Origin & Manufacturing
London (Tower Hill) or Llantrisant (Wales), United Kingdom. Manufactured by the Royal Mint.
Era & Period
George V Era (1910-1936). Specifically fits within the 'Interwar Period' following the high Victorian/Edwardian gold standard years.
Age Estimate
Circa 1911-1936. The portrait style remained consistent throughout the King's reign.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the British Empire at its territorial height, these coins were used across the globe from London to Australia and Africa.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows significant circulation wear (high points of the beard and ear are flattened), heavy oxidation/tarnish, and surface pitting. The silver looks 'grey,' which is characteristic of the lower .500 purity found after 1920.
Value Estimate
Relatively low due to high mintage and worn condition. Generally valued for its silver melt content ($5 - $15 USD) unless it is a rare date/high grade specimen found on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are strongly advised NOT to polish or clean coins with silver creams, as this destroys 'numismatic value'. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Australian or Canadian George V silver coins (often feature the King wearing a crown instead of the uncrowned 'domestic' portrait seen here).
Interesting Facts
George V was the first British monarch to have a 'debased' silver coinage. Before 1920, all British silver coins had been .925 sterling since the 12th century. The change was made to help pay off war debts to the USA.