The first Cupro-Nickel Shillings (1947-1951)

The first cupro-nickel shillings were issued in 1947, marking a significant change in British coinage. Previously, shillings had been struck in silver, but due to post-war economic challenges and the rising cost of silver, the British government transitioned to a cupronickel alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel). These new shillings retained the same design, featuring George VI’s portrait on the obverse and either the English or Scottish coat of arms on the reverse. We recently acquired a group that had been put aside by a dealer for many decades, they are dated 1947 to 1950 and feature the ‘English’ reverse. They are in wonderful Uncirculated condition and the 1949 to 1951’s are much scarcer.