The sixpence was a British coin issued in sterling silver which was worth half of one shilling. It was introduced to address the need for a smaller denomination silver coin.
Over nearly five centuries, the sixpence became an important part of British commerce and culture. Although it is no longer in circulation, the coin continues to hold symbolic value and is a prized keepsake among collectors.
Historical Background of the Sixpence
Origin and Inception of the Sixpence
The sixpence originated during currency reform amid the reign of Edward VI, who introduced it in 1551 to stabilize the monetary system after the debasement of silver coins under Henry VIII. Debasement under Henry VIII had reduced the value of the testoon, an older coin, from 12 pence to 6 pence, which created the need for a smaller denomination. The new coin represented six pennies or half a shilling. Designed to facilitate smoother transactions, the sixpence quickly gained popularity and became a staple in everyday trade.
Part of the Pound Sterling System
The sixpence was integral to the Carolingian monetary system, where 1 pound was divided into 20 shillings, each worth 12 pence. The sixpence represented 1/40th of a pound. The coin’s composition remained consistent until 1920 when rising silver prices prompted a reduction from 92.5% sterling silver to 50% silver. In 1947, silver was removed entirely, and thereafter, sixpence coins were minted in cupronickel.
The Sixpence in Commerce and Daily Life
For centuries, the sixpence was a vital part of British commerce, used for everyday purchases such as food and theatre tickets. It was practical in size and value but also carried intrinsic worth due to its silver content. In the Victorian era, sixpences were commonly given as tips or tokens of gratitude, highlighting their role in both commerce and social customs.
Designs and Inscriptions of Sixpence Coins
Each ruler issued coins in the monarch’s style, which included their name, title, and claims to honors and various lands.
Edward VI (1551–1553)
Obverse
Featured a portrait of the young Edward VI facing right, flanked by a Tudor rose and the numeral VI, with the inscription EDWARD VI D G AGL FRA Z HIB REX (Edward VI, by the Grace of God, King of England, France, and Ireland.)
Reverse
Depicted the royal coat of arms over a long cross, surrounded by the inscription POSUI DEVM ADIVTOREM MEVM (I have made God my helper).
Elizabeth I (1558-1603)
Obverse
Portrayed the left facing bust of Queen Elizabeth I. An inscription read ELIZABETH D G ANG FR ET HIB REGINA (Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland.)
Reverse
Depicted the royal coat of arms over a long cross, surrounded by the inscription POSUI DEVM ADIVTOREM MEVM (I have made God my helper).
Beginning in 1561, some sixpence issues were machined, which resulted in much sharper details.
Charles II (1660-1685)
Obverse
Displayed a bust of Charles II, facing right, along with the inscription CAROLUS II DEI GRATIA (Charles II, by the Grace of God).
Reverse
Featured four shields in a cruciform pattern, as well as the monarch’s style, MAG BRIT FRAN ET HIB REX (King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland).
Composition Changes
1920 Debasement
Rising silver prices reduced the silver content of coins to 50%. Great Britain was one of many nations to reduce the silver content of its coins to reduce seigniorage in this time.
1947 Transition
Silver was replaced with cupronickel amid further rising silver costs and post-war economic constraints.
Decimalization and Withdrawal
In 1971, the UK adopted a decimal currency system, and the sixpence was withdrawn from circulation. Its value was set at 2½ new pence before being demonetized in 1980. Despite its removal from everyday transactions, the sixpence remained culturally significant, particularly in wedding and holiday traditions.
Cultural Significance
Wedding Traditions
The sixpence plays a role in the rhyme: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in her shoe.” It was traditionally placed in the bride’s shoe by her father, and the coin symbolizes prosperity, happiness, and good fortune for the marriage in this context.
Christmas Customs
Sixpences were often hidden in Christmas puddings. The lucky diner who found the coin in their slice was believed to receive good fortune for the coming year. This tradition added a hopeful element to holiday celebrations and continues in some households today.
The Sixpence in Literature and Popular Culture
References in Literature, Songs, and Folklore
- The sixpence appears in numerous works of British literature, including works by Charles Dickens (David Copperfield) and Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
- The nursery rhyme Sing a Song of Sixpence brought the coin further into popular culture, symbolizing wealth and whimsy.
- W. Somerset Maugham’s The Moon and Sixpence and the musical Half a Sixpence underscore the coin’s presence in British cultural storytelling.
Use by Musicians
Guitarist Brian May of Queen famously uses sixpence as plectrums or guitar picks. He even commissioned custom sixpence-style coins for this purpose.
The sixpence was a small but iconic coin that transcended its role as currency to become a cherished symbol of British heritage. From its origins in the 16th century to its presence in modern traditions, the sixpence remains a physical link to Britain’s history.
