Elizabeth II Threepence

A straightforward series, but it will give the first hints of some of the difficulties that the "tricky '50s" throw up in the higher denominations.  Prepare to wait for a perfect 1954, 1956, 1958, and 1959.

Like all 1953 coins apart from the Penny, the Threepence comes with two Obverses.

1953 Obv 1
1953 Obv 1
 1953 Obv 2
1953 Obv 2
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Diameter: 22mm,   Weight: 6.8g,   Alloy: Copper: 79%, Zinc: 20% Nickel: 1%


1953

Obverse 1 was originally the scarcer of the two 1953 coins, as it was only found in the plastic sets, and 1.3 million of those were issued, compared to more than 30 million Obverse 2s. As circulation took its toll, and as more plastic sets were split, Obverse 1 gradually became commoner in high grade. It is now quite unusual to find an Uncirculated Obverse 2. Not Rare, by any means, but unusual.

This is not an easy variety to distinguish, particularly on more worn specimens.

1953 Obv 1 Obverse 1

I of LIZ some distance from corner

Corner to one side of H of BETH

Shallow portrait		 1953 Obv 1
1953 Obv 2 Obverse 2

I of LIZ closer to corner

Corner more central to H of BETH

recut portrait		 1953 Obv 2

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