1950 British Proof Set

1950 United Kingdom Proof Set – A Rare Post-War Collectible

The 1950 UK Proof Set is a highly sought-after British coin collection, issued in a time of economic recovery following World War II. Unlike modern proof sets, which were often officially released in large numbers, the 1950 proof coins were struck in very limited quantities, making them extremely rare and collectible today.

This set is particularly significant because it includes coins from Britain’s pre-decimal currency system, featuring King George VI, who reigned from 1936 to 1952.

Coins Included in the 1950 UK Proof Set

The set contains the following pre-decimal denominations, all featuring King George VI’s effigy on the obverse:

1. Halfcrown (2 Shillings & 6 Pence)
2. Florin (2 Shillings)
3. English Shilling
4. Scottish Shilling (featuring the Scottish lion rampant instead of the English lions)
5. Sixpence
6. Threepence (Brass version, as silver threepences were discontinued in 1945)
7. Penny (Bronze)
8. Halfpenny (Bronze)
9. Farthing (Bronze, featuring a wren on the reverse)

Design Features

Obverse – King George VI

• The obverse of each coin features the portrait of King George VI, designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget.
• The inscription around the king's portrait reads:
  • "GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX F:D: IND: IMP:" (George VI, by the Grace of God, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India)
  • After 1949, following India’s independence, the "IND: IMP:" (Emperor of India) part was removed.

Reverse Designs

• Each coin in the set retains its classic reverse design, reflecting British heraldry, national symbols, and tradition.
• Notable designs include:
  ✔ Halfcrown & Florin – Featuring the Royal Shield and Crown.
  ✔ Shillings – England and Scotland each had separate shilling designs.
  ✔ Sixpence – Features the Tudor rose, symbolizing unity between England and Scotland.
  ✔ Threepence – Depicts a thrift plant, representing economic prudence.
  ✔ Penny, Halfpenny, and Farthing – Showcasing the traditional Britannia (penny, halfpenny) and a wren(farthing).

Specifications of the 1950 Proof Coins

• Metal Composition:
  ✔ Silver Coins (Halfcrown, Florin, Shillings, Sixpence) – 50% Silver (reduced from 92.5% after 1920)
  ✔ Brass Threepence – Copper-Zinc Alloy
  ✔ Bronze Coins (Penny, Halfpenny, Farthing) – Copper-Tin-Zinc Alloy
• Mintage: Extremely limited (exact figures are debated, but very low).

Historical Significance of the 1950 Proof Set

✔ One of the Last George VI Proof Sets – King George VI passed away in 1952, making this one of his final proof issues.
✔ Post-War Coinage – Reflects Britain’s economy after WWII, with continued silver content reduction due to cost-saving measures.
✔ Rare & Collectible – Unlike more widely available proof sets from later years, the 1950 proof coins were never officially packaged as a complete set, making original sets hard to find.

Why Collect the 1950 UK Proof Set?

The 1950 British Proof Set is an exceptional piece of numismatic history, showcasing post-war British coinage, the reign of King George VI, and the transition toward a fully base-metal currency. With its low mintage, historical importance, and elegant classic designs, this set is a must-have for collectors of British coins and pre-decimal currency.