1971 Britain's First Decimal Coins 5 Coin Set

This set of Britain's first decimal coins contains three bronze coins  (the 1/2 pence, and the 1 and 2 pence) and two cupro-nickel coins (the 5 and 10 pence).

The set may be popular for gifts of those born in 1971, their year of release. Note that the set contains coins dated 1968 and 1971. The sets will be pre-owned and in good condition, some of the coins may have toning which is natural with age. 

The information card says that the UK officially changed over to decimal currency on the 15th February 1971 otherwise called 'decimal day' or 'D day'.

Decimal Day

Decimal Day, the day in which the UK switched from £sd to decimal coinage, took place on 15th February 1971. The government prepared for the massive change by withdrawing some denominations of coins and notes prior to the 1971 launch day. They also introduced fifty pence coins a couple of years earlier, in 1969.

In order to acquaint the general public to the new denominations of coins, special packs were issued featuring the new half penny, penny, two pence, five pence and ten pence coins. 

The bronze coins did not become legal tender until 15th February 1971 but the 5p and 10p were released in 1968 and had the same weight, size and metal content as the shilling and florin and were interchangable with them. 

The information card seen in the photos has other interesting facts on it such as the fact that the sixth decimal coin was to be the 50p to replace the 10s note.

The classic portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin

The reverses are all by Christopher Ironside and are as follows;

1/2p The Royal Crown

1p Crowned portcullis with chains either side 

2p Prince of Wales badge consisting of three ostrich feathers within a coronet of cross pattee and fleurs de lys, with the motto 'Ich Dian.'

5p A crowned thistle to represent Scotland

10p  Lion passant crowned. This is usually seen in the crest of England