Five New Pence (Large Type)
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (issued by the Royal Mint)
Year of Issue: 1980
Denomination: 5 New Pence
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel (Cupro-nickel)
Brief Description
A round, silver-colored coin featuring the bust of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and a crowned thistle on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This coin belongs to the original decimal series introduced in the UK in 1968 to replace the pre-decimal shilling. It was used until the 'new' 5p was downsized in 1990.
Estimated Value
$0.15-$0.50 circulated; $1.00-$3.00 in uncirculated condition
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys the numismatic surface. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope to prevent toning or corrosion.
Mint Mark
None (struck at the Royal Mint Llantrisant, Wales)
Mintage & Rarity
212,503,000 (Common)
Weight & Diameter
5.65g / 23.59mm
Edge
reeded
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine (VF). Visible wear on the queen's hair and the thistle details; some rim damage visible at 2 o'clock on the obverse.
Obverse (Front)
Second crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Legend: ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D·1980. Designer: Arnold Machin.
Reverse (Back)
A crowned thistle (the badge of Scotland) with leaves. Legend: NEW PENCE 5. Designer: Christopher Ironside.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade is the primary factor. Because over 200 million were minted, it holds very little value above its exchange rate unless in pristine Mint State.
Similar Coins
Post-1990 5p coins (smaller), pre-decimal Shillings (same size/weight), and earlier 5 New Pence dated 1968-1979.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits of this denomination and year are extremely rare due to low collector value. Verify the weight (5.65g) and the distinct 'ping' of cupro-nickel.
Notable Varieties & Errors
None widely recognized for the 1980 date; the 'New Pence' (vs 'Five Pence' after 1981) is a standard design feature for this year.
Created At: 2026-05-10T22:01:30.338636