Coin Identifier
Queen Elizabeth II Two Shillings (Florin) — obverse
Obverse
Queen Elizabeth II Two Shillings (Florin) — reverse
Reverse
Two Shillings (One Florin)

Queen Elizabeth II Two Shillings (Florin)

United Kingdom (Royal Mint) · 1955

A British pre-decimal cupro-nickel coin featuring the young laureate portrait of Elizabeth II.

Country
United Kingdom (Royal Mint)
Year
1955
Denomination
Two Shillings (One Florin)
Metal
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

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Overview

A British pre-decimal cupro-nickel coin featuring the young laureate portrait of Elizabeth II.

Historical significance

One of the early issues of Queen Elizabeth II's reign. The florin (two shillings) was a precursor to the modern 10p coin and circulated until decimalization in 1971.

Obverse (front)

First laureate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, designed by Mary Gillick. Legend: ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F:D:

Reverse (back)

A central Tudor rose surrounded by thistles, shamrocks, and leeks, symbolizing the four parts of the UK. Designed by Edgar Fuller and Cecil Thomas. Legend: FID: DEF: TWO SHILLINGS 1955.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $1.50 circulated; $5.00 - $15.00 in Mint State

What drives this coin's value

Value is primarily driven by condition. Because massive quantities were minted, only high-grade (Uncirculated) examples or those with specific errors carry a premium.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine (EF), showing light wear on the higher points of the hair and rose but retaining significant detail.

Mintage & rarity

25,979,000 (Very common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits are rare for this date due to low value; verify the weight (11.31g) and ensure the reeded edge is crisp.

Notable varieties & errors

None commonly recognized for this specific year; however, collectors look for 'proof-like' examples from early strikes.

Similar coins

Often confused with the One Shilling coin (which is smaller) or the 10p coin (which replaced it in size but had decimal markings).

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this damages the surface and reduces collector value. Store in a PVC-free plastic holder or acid-free paper envelope to prevent toning or corrosion.