1927 Silver Proof Set of George V

1927 British Proof Set – The First Modern Proof Coinage

The 1927 British Proof Set is one of the most historically significant coin sets of the 20th century. Issued during the reign of King George V (1910–1936), it marked the introduction of a new coinage design, commonly known as the modified wreath coinage. This set was specially struck to celebrate the redesigned currency and is considered the first modern British proof set.

Coins Included in the 1927 Proof Set

The 1927 proof set consists of six coins, all struck to an exceptionally high-quality proof finish:

• Crown (5 Shillings)
• Halfcrown (2 Shillings and 6 Pence)
• Florin (2 Shillings)
• Shilling (1 Shilling)
• Sixpence (6 Pence)
• Threepence (3 Pence)

Unlike later proof sets, the 1927 set did not include lower denominations such as the penny, halfpenny, or farthing, as these were still being struck in their previous designs.

Design Features

Obverse – King George V

• The obverse of all coins in the set features a left-facing portrait of King George V, designed by Bertram Mackennal.
• Surrounding the portrait is the Latin legend:

  "GEORGIVS V D G BRITT OMN REX F D IND IMP"
  translating to "George V, by the Grace of God, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India."

Reverse – Modified Wreath Design

• The 1927 proof set introduced a new reverse design on silver coins, replacing the earlier ‘rocking horse’ type.
• Each denomination features an elegant crowned wreath design, with the coin’s value in the center.
• This artistic change was part of an effort to modernize British coinage while maintaining traditional heraldic elements.

Specifications

• Monarch: King George V (1910–1936)
• Metal Composition:
  • Crown to Threepence: Struck in .500 fine silver
• Mintage: Limited to 15,000 sets, making it a relatively scarce issue
• Finish: Struck to a highly polished proof standard

Historical Significance

✔ The First Modern British Proof Set

• The 1927 proof set was the first official proof set issued since 1893.
• It marked a new era of coinage design under King George V.

✔ Introduction of the Modified Wreath Design

• This proof set introduced a new style for British silver coinage, which remained in circulation until 1936.

✔ Royal Mint’s Technical Excellence

• The set demonstrated the Royal Mint’s ability to produce high-quality proof coinage, setting the standard for future issues.

✔ A Collectible Masterpiece

• With a limited mintage of only 15,000 sets, the 1927 proof set is highly sought after by collectors.

Conclusion

The 1927 British Proof Set is a landmark issue in British numismatics, showcasing the transition to modern coinage under King George V. With its stunning proof finish, elegant designs, and historical importance, it remains one of the most collectible British proof sets of the 20th century.