George V Threepence Coins
George V was King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, as well as Emperor of India, between 1910 and 1936. George V Threepence or Threepenny pieces are readily available and apart from their appeal to collectors, they are also the ideal traditional choice for putting in the Christmas pudding.
Collectible Value
As with any coin, the value of the George V Threepence is determined by the age and the overall condition. Wear and tear inevitably results in scratches and faded areas on the faces of the coin and these depreciate the value significantly. There are very few variations in the George V Threepence apart from one major redesign in 1927 and some very slight variations in the size and shape of the beading around the edge.
Proof coins (early samples of a coin issue, used only for checking dies and not issued for circulation) are significantly higher in value and George V proof coins were minted in 1911 and 1927. In fact, in 1927 the design of the reverse of the coins was changed from the previous crowned 3 to a design of three oak sprigs, with three acorns and a G in the centre. Hence, 1927 oak sprig coins are proof only and circulation of this design commenced in 1928.
Silver Content
During the reign of George V, the silver content of Threepence pieces changed twice; in 1920 they changed from sterling silver (0.925%) to a mix of 50% silver, 40% copper and 10% nickel and in 1927 they changed again to 50% silver, 40% copper, 5% nickel and 5% zinc.
Maundy Threepence
Maundy Thursday is the Thursday before Easter and on this day in the UK the Monarch historically distributes specially minted coins. On Maundy Thursday in the years 1927 to 1936 the threepence piece returned to the older crowned 3 design, instead of the newer oak sprig design.
