The 1923 King George V silver florin: A coin of change and charm...
When it comes to classic British silver coinage, few pieces combine history, beauty, and silver content quite like the florin. One of my favourites in this category is the 1923 King George V silver florin—a coin that stands as a snapshot of a nation between eras, and a treasured addition to my collection.
Struck in .500 fine silver (following the 1920 debasement from sterling), the 1923 florin carries with it the weight of tradition, even as the silver content reflected a changing economic landscape. At 11.31 grams, it’s a satisfying piece to hold, larger than a shilling but smaller than the half-crown, and still containing a good chunk of real silver for its time.
The obverse of the coin features Sir Bertram Mackennal’s iconic portrait of King George V—the "Sailor King"—with his characteristic beard and no-nonsense expression. Flip the coin over, and you’re greeted by one of the most striking reverse designs of circulating British silver: a cruciform arrangement of crowned shields representing England, Scotland, and Ireland, separated by sceptres. It’s a design that speaks of unity across the UK, combining royal symbolism with national pride.
What makes the 1923 florin special to me is that it represents a time of transition. Britain was still finding its feet after the First World War, the empire was changing, and the old silver standards were giving way to more modern alloys. Yet the florin endured as a practical, well-respected coin—a workhorse of commerce with an elegance that shines through, even in worn examples.
My 1923 florin shows signs of circulation, and that’s just how I like it. Every nick and smooth edge tells a story, reminding me that silver stacking isn’t only about weight or purity—it’s about preserving history, holding in your hand something that was once part of everyday life.
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