Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Decimalisation with the Solid Silver Thru' Penny Bit

It's been a little over 50 years since Britain transitioned to a decimal currency system. On February 15, 1971, known as ‘Decimal Day,’ the nation bid farewell to the shilling of twelve pence and the pound of twenty shillings, welcoming a new pound consisting of exactly one hundred ‘new pence.’ In this significant shift, a fresh set of coins was minted, from the small halfpenny to the sizeable 50p coin, but sadly, the cherished 12-sided brass Thru’ Penny Bit had no place in this new lineup. To this day, many still consider the 3d their favourite British coin, and to honour 50 years of decimalisation, it has made a special return.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the most significant change in British coinage — a very special coin was issued. Reissued, in fact! One that was last seen over 50 years ago — the 12-sided ‘Thru’penny Bit’

Shaped just like its pre-decimal forebear with traditional portcullis design and three-pence face value, this new anniversary edition is crafted in Sterling Silver and has been struck to a PROOF finish — the highest quality possible. Whilst the first 3d coins of Queen Elizabeth II's reign bore the youthful portrait by Mary Gillick, this new ‘Thru’penny Bit’ depicts the nation’s longest-reigning monarch, the late Queen Elizabeth II, as she appeared towards the end of her reign. What incredible changes we have witnessed since the threepence coin last jingled in our pockets! 

The Thru’penny Bit’ was one of the most instantly recognisable coins of our pre-decimal days. Its iconic Portcullis motif, a symbol of strength and protection, has graced British coins for centuries and was first introduced on the Threepence 70 years ago in 1954. In this modern strike, the portcullis has been reimagined with intricate detailing that showcases the advancements in minting technology, ensuring the design is both historically accurate and visually stunning. Although the threepence coin was retired in 1971 with decimalisation, its legacy remains strong. 

Crafted in Silver, A Classic Design is Reimagined for a New Era

Reminiscent of the time when a packet of biscuits or a block of butter cost less than two shillings, and Britain ‘never had it so good', this little coin connects us to our past and to happy memories. Whilst today’s coin sees the denomination change to ‘new pence’ to reflect our modern decimal age, the twelve sides, and portcullis design remain. It truly is a coin of yesterday updated for the 21st century.