The British half crown was a pre-decimal denomination worth two shillings and sixpence. That was one-eighth of a pound. It was used in several forms over a long period, so the date and type matter far more than the words “half crown” alone.
When was the half crown used?
Half crowns were first issued in the Tudor period. Later examples were struck under different monarchs as hammered or milled coins. The denomination was withdrawn as legal tender on Decimal Day, 15 February 1971, when Britain changed to decimal currency.
Half crown silver content
For the familiar modern series, the composition changed over time:
- 1816 to 1919: sterling silver, .925 fine.
- 1920 to 1946: 50% silver.
- 1947 to 1970: cupro-nickel, with no silver content.
Earlier Tudor, Stuart and other historic issues need a reign and type-specific identification. Some early half crowns were made from gold or silver, but a silver content calculation is not the same as a collector valuation.
How to identify a half crown
Start with clear photographs of both sides and the edge. Record the monarch, date, design, edge lettering, weight and diameter. Also note whether the coin is circulated, uncirculated, proof, a pattern, damaged or cleaned. Hammered and milled coins can have varieties that require a specialist reference such as Spink alongside a catalogue such as Numista.
How much is a half crown worth?
There is no reliable single price for all half crowns. A common cupro-nickel George VI example is assessed differently from a sterling Victorian coin, a high-grade Edwardian example, a proof, or an early pattern. Date, variety, grade, eye appeal, cleaning, damage and authenticity all affect the result.
Do not use the old eBay figures that appeared in earlier versions of this article as current values. They may have mixed asking prices, completed sales, grades and varieties. To estimate a realistic value, compare several recent completed UK sales of the same type and condition, and record the sale date, grade, lot contents and whether buyer’s premium is included.
What to send for an appraisal
If you want a more useful first assessment, provide the date and monarch together with obverse, reverse and edge photographs. A specialist numismatist or auction house should examine valuable, unusual or apparently error coins in person.
For more context on British crown denominations and valuation, see our British crown value guide.