Coin Identifier
One New Penny — obverse
Obverse
One New Penny — reverse
Reverse
1 New Penny

One New Penny

United Kingdom · 1971

A British bronze coin featuring the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and the badge of the Royal Portcullis with chains on the reverse.

Country
United Kingdom
Year
1971
Denomination
1 New Penny
Metal
Bronze (97% copper, 2.5% zinc, 0.5% tin)

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Overview

A British bronze coin featuring the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and the badge of the Royal Portcullis with chains on the reverse.

Historical significance

Issued during decimalization day on February 15, 1971, when the United Kingdom replaced its traditional £sd system (pounds, shillings, and pence) with a decimal currency system where one pound equaled 100 new pence.

Obverse (front)

Second crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, surrounded by the legend 'ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 1971'.

Reverse (back)

The Badge of the Palace of Westminster (a portcullis with chains and a coronet on top), with the denomination 'NEW PENNY' above and the numeral '1' below, designed by Christopher Ironside.

Estimated value

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

What drives this coin's value

Overall condition, presence of original mint luster, and freedom from environmental damage or corrosion.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated to Mint State (AU/MS) with minor verdigris/spotting on the obverse.

Mintage & rarity

Very common. Over 1.5 billion minted for circulation in 1971.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Due to massive mintage and low face value, counterfeiting is virtually non-existent. Check weight and dimensions if suspicious.

Notable varieties & errors

Standard business strikes and proof versions issued in collector sets.

Similar coins

British one penny coins issued from 1982 onwards, which bear the legend 'ONE PENNY' instead of 'NEW PENNY'.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves or bare, clean hands. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and PVC flips to prevent verdigris or corrosion.