5 New Pence

A British decimal coin featuring the first crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and a crowned thistle badge on the reverse.

Issued during 'Decimal Day' on February 15, 1971, when the United Kingdom officially converted its currency to a decimal system, replacing the old £sd system (pounds, shillings, and pence). This specific coin shares the exact same specifications and value as the pre-decimal one-shilling coin.

First crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The legend reads 'ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 1971'. Designed by Arnold Machin.

A badge of Scotland featuring a royal thistle royally crowned, dividing the denomination '5' and the words 'NEW PENCE'. Designed by Christopher Ironside.

$0.10 to $0.50 in circulated condition; up to $2.00 to $5.00 in uncirculated (Mint State) condition.

About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS), showing minor contact marks but strong original luster and details.

Common; mintage for 1971 exceeded 134 million pieces.

Minor proof-only variations or rare mint error strikes (such as off-center strikes or brockages), though none are commonly sought as major key dates due to the massive initial mintage.

British one shilling coin (identical in size and weight, issued prior to decimalization) and later versions of the 5 pence coin (which dropped the word 'NEW' starting in 1990).

Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves if uncirculated. Store in a cool, dry place in an inert PVC-free coin flip, holder, or album. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive polishing, which will destroy the surface and ruin its numismatic value.