British History
The Sixpence: 5 Burning Questions Answered
Why is the Sixpence placed in Wedding Shoes and Christmas Puddings? Today we will explore some of the top questions surrounding the Sixpence coin, uncover the stories and traditions behind this tiny yet iconic coin.
1. What is a Sixpence Coin?
The Sixpence was once widely circulated in the United Kingdom and its former colonies. Worth 2.5p, it remained in circulation until 1980. The coin’s design and composition have evolved over the centuries, reflecting the changing faces of monarchs and the artistic trends of each era.
2. Why is the Sixpence Coin Associated with Weddings?
One of the most enduring traditions involving the Sixpence coin is its association with weddings. For many years, the father of the bride would slip a Sixpence into his daughter’s shoe before she walked down the aisle. The Sixpence stood for good luck, and to show that the father wished his daughter prosperity in her marriage.
3. What is the Meaning Behind the Rhyme “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and a Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe”?
This famous wedding rhyme includes a set of superstitions and customs believed to bring good luck to the bride on her wedding day. The inclusion of a Sixpence in her shoe represents wealth and financial prosperity in the marriage.
4. What is the Sixpence Christmas Tradition?
Beyond weddings and everyday circulation, the Sixpence coin has found its way into another cherished tradition – Christmas puddings. Dating back to Victorian England, it became a popular custom to include a silver coin in the mixture when preparing the Christmas pudding. The thought behind this was not only to add a bit of festive surprise but also to give luck and prosperity to the person fortunate enough to find the coin in their serving of Christmas pudding.
5. Are Sixpence Coins Still in Circulation?
In the United Kingdom, Sixpence coins ceased to be legal tender in 1980. However, these coins are still cherished by collectors and are often found in antique markets and online auctions. The historical value and unique designs of these coins make them sought-after items for all collectors.
Add a sixpence to your collection right now by clicking here >>
A Journey into Supersonic History with Chief Concorde Engineer John Britton
Commemorating Concorde’s Final Flight
Have you ever dreamt of stepping into the world of supersonic aviation history? Well, I recently had the chance to turn that dream into reality as I embarked on a thrilling adventure to the Bristol Aerospace Museum. This journey wasn’t just about wandering through exhibits, it was about commemorating the 20th anniversary of the final flight of the world-famous supersonic aircraft, Concorde.
I jumped at the opportunity to take our brand new Concorde commemoratives on board Concorde Alpha Foxtrot 216 G-BOAF.
On Board Concorde G-BOAF
As I set foot on the Concorde, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of a lifelong dream coming true. The sleek lines, the aviation marvel that once ruled the skies—it was all there beneath my feet. But this adventure wasn’t just about being on board; it was about delving into the heart of Concorde’s legacy.
The highlight of my day? An exclusive interview with none other than Concorde’s Chief Engineer, John Britton. Imagine having the opportunity to pick the brain of the mastermind behind this supersonic aircraft.
Behind the Scenes: Exclusive Interview with Chief Engineer John Britton
The stories, the facts, and the rich history he shared with me were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Britton’s insights transported me back in time, painting a vivid picture of Concorde’s glory days. From the engineering marvels that defined its success to the intricate details of its final flight.
As I listened to Britton, I couldn’t help but marvel at John’s passion and engineering brilliance that helped bring Concorde to life.
Leaving the museum that day, I carried with me not just the commemoratives that had traveled on Concorde’s final journey but a newfound appreciation for the legacy of supersonic travel. The Bristol Aerospace Museum had transformed a casual visit into a journey through time.
I urge you to step into the world of Bristol Aerospace Museum and witness this iconic aircraft for yourself.
Just released: Journey through the legacy of James Bond…
The Royal Mint have officially released a brand-new series of coins, taking collectors on a journey through an incredible legacy of cinematic history.
From the 60s, all the way through the noughties to present day, the new seven-coin series features none other than the suave and sophisticated, James Bond.
The 60’s
The first coin starts us off in the swinging 60s, with ‘You Only Live Twice’. The classic gun sight background and iconic 007 logo adorns the reverse, alongside an excellent depiction of autogyro ‘Little Nellie’ and Sean Connery’s adaptation of James Bond in the driver’s seat.
The Edition Limit
The Silver Proof edition of this coin – by far the most popular with collectors – has an edition limit of just 4,007 (do you see what they did there?). Now, let me put this into perspective…
In 2020, The Royal Mint released three, 1oz Silver Coins for James Bond – the first of its kind – each with an edition limit of 7,007 coins. All three coins completely sold out.
These coins are now highly desired by collectors. In fact, securing them on the secondary market can be a real chore given the scarcity and collectability of any piece of Bond memorabilia.
So, with an edition limit that is almost HALF that of the sell-out coins, these new coins are virtually guaranteed to be snapped up.
How you can secure yours
Should you wish to secure the limited Silver Proof version of this coin, or perhaps the Brilliant Uncirculated coin in official Royal Mint packaging, you can click here >>
What’s more, by securing your coin today you can be added to the Priority List, which will give you priority access to all future coins in ‘Decades of Bond £5 coin series’…
