A United Kingdom 6 Pence (92.5% Silver, 1837–1920) contains 0.0841 troy oz of pure silver, worth $4.54 at today's spot price.
The sixpence was a small British silver coin worth half a shilling. Sixpences were sterling silver through the reigns of Victoria and Edward VII and into George V's, until the change to 50% silver in 1920.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 25, 2:09 AM 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Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.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 | 1837–1920 |
|---|---|
| Face value | 6 Pence |
| Composition | 92.5% silver |
| Gross weight | 2.828 g |
| Fineness | .925 (92.5%) |
| Pure metal | 0.0841 troy oz (2.616 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.
-
2.828 g × .925 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.0841 troy oz
0.0841 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $4.54
How to identify it
- Most Victorian and Edward VII sixpences show SIX PENCE in a wreath under a crown, with the date below.
- In 1887 a Jubilee sixpence with a shield reverse was withdrawn because people gilded it to pass as a half sovereign; the wreath design returned later that year.
- George V sixpences dated up to 1926 show a lion standing on a crown.
- Sixpences dated 1920 were struck in both sterling and 50% silver and look alike; those dated 1921 or later are not sterling. Sixpences dated 1837 show William IV, not Victoria, whose first sixpences are dated 1838.
Melt value vs. collector value
Worn George V and late Victorian sixpences usually trade close to melt. Early young head dates and coins in high grade can sell for more.