During Queen Victoria's reign, which lasted from 1837 to 1901, a wide variety of silver coins were minted across the British Empire. These coins bore Queen Victoria's portrait on the obverse and various designs on the reverse, reflecting the changing political and cultural landscape of the time. Here are some of the main types of silver coins minted during Queen Victoria's reign:
Silver Crown: The crown was a large silver coin with a denomination of five shillings. These coins were typically issued for special occasions or to commemorate significant events. They often featured elaborate designs on both the obverse and reverse, showcasing important symbols or national emblems.
Silver Half-Crown: The half-crown was a smaller silver coin with a denomination of two shillings and sixpence. These coins were widely circulated and used for everyday transactions throughout the British Empire.
Silver Shilling: The shilling was a standard unit of currency in the British Empire, and silver shilling coins featuring Queen Victoria's portrait were minted in large quantities. They were used for various transactions and were an essential part of everyday commerce.
Silver Sixpence: The sixpence was another commonly used denomination, worth half of a shilling. Silver sixpence coins featuring Queen Victoria's portrait were widely circulated and used for smaller transactions.
Silver Threepence: The threepence, also known as the "joey," was a small silver coin with a denomination of three pence. These coins were commonly used for small purchases and were an integral part of the British currency system during Queen Victoria's reign.
Maundy Money: Queen Victoria's Maundy Money consisted of silver coins specially minted for the traditional Maundy Thursday ceremonies. These coins included the Maundy penny, twopence, threepence, and fourpence, all featuring Queen Victoria's portrait.
These silver coins played a crucial role in the economy of the British Empire during Queen Victoria's reign. They are sought after by collectors of British coins and serve as important historical artifacts from the Victorian era.