A United Kingdom ½ Crown contains 0.4205 troy oz of pure silver, worth $22.72 at today's spot price.
The half crown was a British silver coin worth two shillings and sixpence. Half crowns of Victoria, Edward VII and George V dated up to 1919 are sterling silver; from 1920 the silver content was cut to 50%.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 23, 7:10 PM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1839–1919 |
|---|---|
| Face value | ½ Crown |
| Composition | 92.5% silver |
| Gross weight | 14.138 g |
| Fineness | .925 (92.5%) |
| Pure metal | 0.4205 troy oz (13.078 g) |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure silver in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
14.138 g × .925 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.4205 troy oz
0.4205 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $22.72
How to identify it
- Victorian half crowns show the young head (1839–1887), the Jubilee head (1887–1892) or the veiled old head (1893–1901), with a crowned shield of the royal arms on the reverse.
- Edward VII faces right on coins dated 1902–1910; Victoria and George V face left.
- George V half crowns dated 1911–1919 are sterling. Coins dated 1920 or later look much the same but hold less silver, or none from 1947, so check the date.
Melt value vs. collector value
Worn George V and late Victorian half crowns usually trade close to melt. Young head Victorian coins, Edward VII coins (1903 and 1905 had small mintages) and coins in high grade sell for more.