The 1939 King George VI silver two shilling coin: A last glimpse of silver in circulation...

Among the pieces in my stack that I treasure most for their history, my 1939 King George VI silver two shilling coin holds a special place. It’s not just a coin — it’s a link to a world on the cusp of massive change.

Struck in .500 fine silver, this 1939 florin (as it’s also known) marked one of the final years British two shilling coins contained real silver. From 1947 onwards, the silver was removed entirely in favour of cupro-nickel — a reflection of post-war shortages and changing times. That makes the 1939 issue part of the last chapter of genuine silver circulating coinage in Britain.

The coin itself is beautifully designed. The obverse bears the portrait of King George VI, freshly crowned in 1937, his profile dignified and resolute — an image that would soon become symbolic of Britain’s wartime courage. The reverse features the crowned Tudor rose flanked by a thistle and shamrock, representing England, Scotland, and Ireland — a design that speaks of unity at a moment when it was needed most.

What I find most fascinating about this particular coin is imagining where it’s been. Issued in the year World War II began, it would have passed through countless hands during blackouts, ration queues, and air raid warnings. It’s a true piece of living history, heavy not just with its silver content, but with the weight of its era.

Today, this 1939 two shilling coin lives quietly in my collection, a small but powerful reminder that precious metals are more than just bullion or value — they are storytellers. And few tell a better story than silver that actually served its country.

40+yr old, trying to shift a few pounds and sharing his efforsts on the blockchain. Come find me on STRAVA or actifit, and we can keep each other motivated .

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