Numismatics Blog
The Birth of the Sovereign The story of the British Sovereign gold coin begins in 1489 during the reign of King Henry VII. Tasked with demonstrating the stability and wealth of the Tudor dynasty, the King’s goldsmiths were ordered to create a coin that was larger and more impressive than any other in circulation. This…
The Influence of the Industrial Revolution on Coin Production One of the most significant ways the Industrial Revolution impacted British coinage was by revolutionising the production process. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, coins were made by hand in a laborious and time-consuming process. This method of coin production was replaced by steam-powered coining presses that…
The Genesis of the 1933 Penny Delving into the history of the 1933 Penny, one discovers a remarkable tale wrapped in an unassuming coin. In the early 1930s, amidst economic turmoil and global changes, a decision was made by the British Royal Mint not to produce any pennies for general circulation in 1933. This decision…
The Need for Decimalisation in Britain Before 1971, the British currency system, with its shillings, pence, and pounds, was a unique and complex one. Each pound consisted of 20 shillings, with each shilling further divided into 12 pence. This old system, with its cumbersome fractions, was increasingly seen as outdated and impractical, especially in the…
In the annals of British history, the reign of William and Mary (1689-1694) is associated with a period of significant political upheaval and religious change. This period, often referred to as the “Glorious Revolution,” had a profound impact on the British monarchy, and these changes were reflected in the coins minted during this era. Coins…
The designs of British coins offer a glimpse into the country’s past, reflecting the reigns of various monarchs and the societal changes they brought. From Henry VII to the current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, this article explores the significant impact each monarch had on the design of British coins. The Introduction of the Shilling: Henry…
The evolution of British coins offers a compelling journey through history, telling a story that transcends the borders of coinage, reaching into the realms of politics, economy, art, and culture. From the influence of Roman coins to the modern decimal coins of the 21st century, each change denotes an epoch in the narrative of Britain….