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Collectors Guide

Edward VII Halfcrown

The Edward VII halfcrown (2s 6d) was struck from 1902 to 1910 and forms a key part of British sterling silver coinage. Featuring the crowned shield reverse, the series includes a range of dates with varying availability in higher grades. This guide provides a detailed reference to Edward VII halfcrowns, including specifications, design features and collecting notes.

Introduction

The Edward VII Halfcrown was struck from 1902 to 1910 in sterling silver (.925) and represents one of the most handsome denominations of the reign. Valued at two shillings and sixpence — one eighth of a pound — it was a significant denomination in everyday Edwardian commerce. This page provides an overview of the Edward VII Halfcrown series, including design details, key dates, and year-by-year reference images.


The series runs for nine consecutive years without a major design change, making it one of the most consistent halfcrown series in British numismatic history. Both the obverse and reverse were designed by George William de Saulles. The obverse carries the bare-headed portrait of the King, and the reverse features the crowned shield of the Royal Arms with the denomination indicated in the legend. High-grade examples command strong collector interest, and the series is a natural starting point for anyone building a type set of Edwardian silver.

Coinage Details

1902–1910 — Annual issues throughout the reign, struck in sterling silver to a consistent standard. The 1905 is the acknowledged key date of the series, considerably scarcer than its neighbours in all grades and commanding a significant premium in mint state. The 1902 is additionally known in a matt proof version, produced as part of the Coronation proof set. Collectors will find the series generally straightforward to complete in circulated grades, while building a run in uncirculated condition requires more patience at the scarcer dates.

Edward VII Halfcrown

1902 Halfcrown 1902
1903 Halfcrown 1903
1904 Halfcrown 1904
1905 Halfcrown 1905
1906 Halfcrown 1906
1907 Halfcrown 1907
1908 Halfcrown 1908
1909 Halfcrown 1909
1910 Halfcrown 1910

Specifications

Years Issued 1902–1910
Diameter 32 mm
Weight 14.14 g
Edge Reeded
Alloy Silver (.925)
Obverse Designer George William de Saulles
Reverse Designer George William de Saulles

Year-by-Year Reference

1902

1902 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1902 Halfcrown Obverse 1902 Halfcrown Reverse

1903

1903 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1903 Halfcrown Obverse 1903 Halfcrown Reverse

1904

1904 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1904 Halfcrown Obverse 1904 Halfcrown Reverse

1905

1905 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1905 Halfcrown Obverse 1905 Halfcrown Reverse

1906

1906 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1906 Halfcrown Obverse 1906 Halfcrown Reverse

1907

1907 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1907 Halfcrown Obverse 1907 Halfcrown Reverse

1908

1908 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1908 Halfcrown Obverse 1908 Halfcrown Reverse

1909

1909 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1909 Halfcrown Obverse 1909 Halfcrown Reverse

1910

1910 Halfcrown
Obverse Reverse
1910 Halfcrown Obverse 1910 Halfcrown Reverse

References

Attributions and variety identifications for the Edward VII Halfcrown series are based principally on the standard published references listed below. These works form the core framework for catalogue numbering, die classification, and comparative study.

  • Coins of England and the United Kingdom
  • ESC – English Silver Coinage
  • Bull – English Silver Coinage since 1649
  • Davies – British Silver Coins since 1816
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