The British Threepence Coin - From Tudors to Testing Times

The British threepence, affectionately known as the "thrupenny bit," has a rich history that spans over 400 years, and has been a beloved coin among both collectors and everyday people alike.

Origins of the Threepence Coin (16th Century)

The threepence coin first appeared during the reign of King Henry VII in 1506, making it one of the earliest coins in British history. The original threepence was minted in silver, just like many of the coins of that era. As a relatively small denomination, it was often used for daily transactions, symbolising the common man’s role in the economy.

The Evolution Under the Tudors and Stuarts

The threepence continued to evolve under various monarchs. During Queen Elizabeth I’s reign in the late 16th century, the coin became even more recognizable due to its distinctive design and its durability, reflecting the strength of the British Empire.

By the time of King George III (18th century), the silver threepence was firmly established as part of British currency. It was even known to have been used in weddings, where it was sometimes given as a token of luck or wealth.

The 20th Century – The Iconic 12-Sided Coin

The threepence underwent a dramatic change in 1937, when a new version was introduced, made of nickel-brass and featuring a unique 12-sided shape. This innovation was designed to make the coin easier to distinguish, particularly for those with visual impairments and reflect its new value by being made of a cheaper metal, in line with inflation, rather than the previoyus coins minted in silver. This 12-sided coin became iconic, standing out among other British coins for its bold, geometric form. The first 12-sided threepences you see on our website have a thrift plant with three flowers on them. This was to remind people to be 'thrifty' with their money and not to take money for granted. This became especially poignant when WWII broke out and rations were introduced. 

The later design featured a Tudor Portcullis on the reverse, symbolising the strength and security of the country post-war, while the obverse showcased the portrait of the reigning monarch. The 12-sided design was a hallmark of the coin until its discontinuation in the 1970s.