1816-1820 George III Silver Shilling

1816–1820 George III Silver Shilling

The 1816–1820 George III Silver Shilling was minted during the final years of King George III’s reign and represents a pivotal moment in British coinage history. As part of the Great Recoinage of 1816, these shillings were introduced to stabilize and modernize the currency system by replacing worn-out silver coinage with new issues that met standardized specifications and improved silver content.

Historical Context

• Reign of George III: King George III ruled from 1760 to 1820, witnessing significant events such as the American Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, and the economic reforms initiated by the Great Recoinage.
• Great Recoinage of 1816: In response to decades of coinage debasement and heavy circulation, 1816 marked a turning point in British numismatics. The new coins, including the shilling, were designed to be uniform in weight and quality, heralding the advent of modern coinage.

Design Features

Obverse – King George III Portrait

• Portrait: A dignified, laureate bust of King George III, facing to the right.
• Inscriptions: The obverse bears the Latin inscription:

  "GEORGIUS III DEI GRATIA"
  translating to "George III, by the Grace of God."

Reverse – Crowned Lion on Shield

• Design: The reverse showcases a dynamic design featuring a crowned lion standing atop a shield, symbolizing strength, sovereignty, and the authority of the crown.
• Inscriptions: Surrounding the design is the inscription:

  "BRITANNIARUM REX FID: DEF:"
  meaning "King of the Britons, Defender of the Faith."
  The coin's date is also prominently displayed below the shield.

Specifications

• Monarch: George III (1760–1820)
• Denomination: Shilling
• Metal: .925 Sterling Silver
• Weight: Approximately 5.66 grams
• Diameter: About 24mm
• Edge: Milled
• Condition: All coins are available in Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF) condition

Numismatic Importance

• Historical Significance:
  Part of the Great Recoinage of 1816, this shilling played a vital role in stabilizing Britain's monetary system and represents the transition to modern coinage.

• Distinctive Design:
  The reverse featuring the crowned lion on a shield is unique to this period and remains a standout element of early 19th-century British coinage.

• Collectibility:
  Due to their historical importance and the limited minting in a relatively short period (1816–1820), these shillings are highly prized among collectors. Coins in VF/EF condition are especially sought after for their well-preserved details and superior aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

The 1816–1820 George III Silver Shilling is not only a key piece of British numismatic history but also a testament to the economic and artistic reforms of the early 19th century. Whether admired for its role in the Great Recoinage or its striking design, this shilling—available in Very Fine to Extremely Fine condition—remains a treasured collectible and a lasting symbol of a transformative era in British coinage.