George II Halfcrowns

Exploring the silver coinage of Britain’s Georgian monarch (1727–1760)

Introduction

The Halfcrown of King George II is a coin steeped in the history of Britain’s 18th-century monetary reform and artistry. Struck in sterling silver and valued at two shillings and sixpence (or one-eighth of a pound), it served as one of the principal silver denominations in circulation throughout his reign.

Issued between 1727 and 1758, the George II halfcrown underwent several changes in portrait, legend, and design, reflecting both the aging monarch and the evolving taste of the Georgian era. The coins were minted at the Royal Mint, London, and feature the work of engravers John Croker and later John Sigismund Tanner.

General Specifications

Monarch: George II (1727–1760)
Denomination: Halfcrown (2 Shillings and 6 Pence)
Composition: Sterling Silver (.925 fine)
Weight: ~14.14 grams
Diameter: 32 mm (approx.)
Edge: Milled, with inscription "DECUS ET TUTAMEN" (“An ornament and a safeguard”)
Mint: Tower Mint, London
Engravers: John Croker (early issues), John Sigismund Tanner (later issues)

Portrait and Design Evolution

George II’s halfcrowns were struck with four principal portrait types, reflecting his advancing age and artistic developments at the Royal Mint:

Young Head (1727–1739): Draped and laureate bust facing left, designed by John Croker. The reverse displays crowned shields of arms in cruciform style with the Order of the Garter at the center.
Old Head (1746–1758): By John Sigismund Tanner — a more mature bust of the King, emphasizing age and dignity, with a slightly broader portrait.

The reverse design remains largely consistent: four crowned shields representing England, Scotland, Ireland, and Hanover, arranged around the central badge of the Order of the Garter. A small rose below the shields indicates issues struck from silver recovered from the South Sea Company stocks (notably 1746).

Historical Context

The halfcrown circulated widely throughout the mid-18th century, serving as a vital denomination in commerce and trade. During George II’s reign, Britain expanded its empire, fought major European wars, and began shaping the monetary stability that would support the Industrial Revolution.

The recoinages of the 1740s improved silver quality and consistency, with the 1746 issues being particularly prized for their association with South Sea silver.

Notable Varieties

1727–1739 Young Head: Early portrait, Croker engraving, with standard stops in legend.
1743 Lima Issue: Marked “LIMA” below bust, struck from silver captured from Spanish ships near Lima, Peru — highly collectible.
1746 Old Head, Rose Issue: Indicates South Sea Company silver, recognizable by a small rose beneath the shields.
1750–1758 Old Head: Mature bust by Tanner, consistent edge inscription, higher relief.

Collecting and Legacy

George II halfcrowns are a cornerstone of 18th-century British numismatics. They offer collectors a fascinating glimpse into the artistry of the Royal Mint and the turbulent decades of Britain’s imperial expansion. Well-preserved examples, especially the 1743 LIMA and 1746 Rose issues, are highly sought after and command strong prices at auction.

Each type reflects a story — from war booty and trade silver to the regal portraiture that bridged the age of baroque and neoclassical design.

“The George II Halfcrown — a silver canvas of Britain’s Georgian ambition.”

Source: Royal Mint Archives, ESC, and Seaby’s Coins of England & The United Kingdom.