King George VI Sixpence
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (British Mint)
Year of Issue: 1947
Denomination: Sixpence (6d)
Composition: Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Brief Description
A circular cupronickel coin featuring the portrait of King George VI on the obverse and a crowned royal monogram on the reverse.
Historical Significance
1947 was the first year of cupronickel production for British silver denominations, as silver was withdrawn to repay the US for Lend-Lease debts following WWII. It is also one of the last years to feature the 'IND : IMP' title before India's independence.
Estimated Value
$0.25-$1.00 in circulated condition; $5.00-$15.00 in high Mint State (MS) grades.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish as this removes the coin's original surface and value. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule in a cool, dry place.
Mint Mark
None (Royal Mint, London)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 55,274,000 minted.
Weight & Diameter
2.83 grams, 19.3 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine. Shows significant wear on the high points of the hair and crown, but all legends and the date are clearly legible.
Obverse (Front)
Bare head of King George VI facing left. Legend: GEORGIVS VI D : G : BR : OMN : REX (George VI by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains). Designer: Thomas Humphrey Paget.
Reverse (Back)
Crowned 'GRI' royal cypher (George Rex Imperator). Legend: FID : DEF : IND : IMP (Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India) with the date 1947 and denomination SIXPENCE. Designer: George Kruger Gray.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade is the primary factor. As a common date cupronickel coin, it only carries significant value in nearly perfect, uncirculated condition.
Similar Coins
1946 Sixpence (which contains 50% silver) and Silver Sixpences of George V. The lack of silver luster and the 1947 date distinguish this cupronickel issue.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits are rare for this specific common date. Authentication involves checking for correct weight (2.83g) and ensuring the milling on the edge is crisp.
Notable Varieties & Errors
None widely recognized for this year; minor die cracks are common.
Created At: 2026-06-28T01:01:50.793193