Description

The King George VI Penny (imaged coin may not be the one being purchased as we have a number of editions) was part of Australia’s pre-decimal currency, which was in use before Australia adopted the decimal currency system in 1966. King George VI was the monarch of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth of Nations from 1936 to 1952, and his image appeared on Australian coins minted during his reign.

Key Features of the King George VI 1 Penny Coin (Australia):

Obverse (Front Side):

• The obverse of the coin features a portrait of King George VI, who was depicted facing left.
• This portrait was designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget, and the inscription around the edge reads “GEORGE VI KING EMPEROR.”
• The portrait design was used on most of the coins from 1937 onwards, including pennies.

Reverse (Back Side):

• The reverse side of the coin features a kangaroo, a symbol of Australia. The design was similar to the reverse on earlier Australian pennies.
• The words “ONE PENNY” are inscribed on the reverse, along with the year of minting and the mintmark (if applicable).

Minting Details:

• The King George VI 1 Penny coin was minted in bronze, which was standard for pennies during this period.
• These coins were produced by several mints, including the Royal Mint in London, and the Royal Australian Mint starting in 1949, following its establishment.

Years of Issue:

• The King George VI 1 Penny coins were minted between 1938 and 1952, during his reign.

Notable Years and Mintmarks:

• Mintmarks: Some of the coins were minted at different locations, including London (no mintmark), Melbourne (M), and Perth (P), which can affect their rarity and value.
• Certain years are rarer than others due to lower mintages, such as the 1948 and 1949 pennies.

Rarity and Value:

• The King George VI 1 Penny coins are relatively common, and their value generally depends on their condition, rarity, and mintmark.
• Circulated coins from common years (e.g., 1940, 1941) might be worth just a few dollars, while those in excellent condition or rarer years could fetch higher prices.
• Coins from lower mintage years, such as 1948 or 1949, or those with mint errors, could be valued more highly by collectors.

Example of Specific Coin Details:

• 1948 Penny: This is considered one of the rarer pennies of King George VI’s reign, with lower mintages making it a more sought-after coin.
• 1939 Penny: The first year of issue for King George VI, following the death of King George V and the abdication of King Edward VIII.

Summary:

The King George VI 1 Penny coin is an important part of Australia’s numismatic history, reflecting the era before the transition to the decimal currency system. While common in many years, specific coins can have higher values depending on their condition and rarity. Coins from the early 1940s and those minted in smaller quantities can be more valuable to collectors.