Introduction to the 1916 One Penny GEORGIVS Coin
The 1916 One Penny bearing the inscription GEORGIVS V is a fascinating piece of British numismatic history. Minted during the turbulence of World War I, this copper coin holds more than just monetary value—it reflects a time of economic uncertainty, royal legacy, and minting precision.
Collectors today seek this penny not only for its age but for its potential value, especially if it features rare minting errors. The 1916 penny, while not the rarest in existence, can command surprising prices depending on its condition and variations.
Detailed Description of the Coin
Obverse Features:
- Displays the profile of King George V, facing left.
- Inscribed with “GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF: IND: IMP.”
- The king is crowned with the laureate bust.
Reverse Features:
- A seated Britannia holding a trident and shield.
- The word “ONE PENNY” arches above, with the year 1916 at the bottom.
Specifications:
- Material: Bronze (95% copper, 4% tin, 1% zinc)
- Diameter: Approximately 30.8 mm
- Weight: Around 9.4 grams
These details are crucial for identifying authentic pieces and distinguishing them from altered or counterfeit coins.
Mintage Figures and Rarity
In 1916, the British Royal Mint produced a large number of pennies, given the wartime demand for coinage. Estimated mintage was over 129 million coins.
However, not all pennies from this year are equal. Some were poorly struck due to die wear or featured minor misalignments, which now make them collectible errors.
Understanding Coin Grading
Coin grading is essential in determining value. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| G (Good) | Heavily worn, major features visible but faint |
| VG (Very Good) | Better detail, but still worn |
| F (Fine) | Moderate wear, most details visible |
| VF (Very Fine) | Light wear, all details sharp |
| EF (Extremely Fine) | Very little wear, nearly pristine |
| UNC (Uncirculated) | Mint condition, no signs of wear |
A 1916 penny in Uncirculated grade is highly valuable compared to one in Good condition.
Market Value of the 1916 Penny
The value of a 1916 penny largely depends on its grade and presence of errors. Below is an average price guide:
| Grade | Value (GBP) | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G) | £0.50 – £1 | $1 – $2 |
| Fine (F) | £2 – £5 | $3 – $7 |
| Very Fine (VF) | £7 – £15 | $10 – $20 |
| Extremely Fine (EF) | £20 – £50 | $25 – $60 |
| Uncirculated (UNC) | £70 – £200+ | $90 – $250+ |
Coins with verified errors can fetch prices as high as £300-£500+ depending on the rarity and type of error.
Rare and Valuable Error Varieties
Some rare errors that make the 1916 penny extremely collectible include:
- Double Strike Errors – Coins struck twice, often showing ghost-like images.
- Off-Center Strikes – Where part of the coin design is missing due to misalignment.
- Brockage Errors – One side features a mirror image due to die malfunction.
- Clipped Planchet – A portion of the coin is cut off due to blanking error.
These errors are rare and should be authenticated by a professional before sale.
How to Identify a Genuine 1916 Error Coin
To verify an error:
- Use a 10x loupe or microscope to inspect fine details.
- Check for doubling, distortion, or anomalies in the lettering and date.
- Avoid cleaned coins, as they can appear altered.
- Consult a coin dealer or get a professional appraisal from NGC or PCGS for authenticity.
Comparing 1916 Penny With Other Years
| Year | Notable Difference |
|---|---|
| 1915 | Slight variation in obverse design |
| 1917 | Higher mintage, less valuable unless uncirculated |
| 1916 | Known for several subtle minting anomalies |
Collectors often look for progression in die wear or subtle design changes that occurred between these years.
Collecting Tips for Beginners
- Start with circulated coins to learn grading.
- Buy from reputable sources (coin shows, certified dealers).
- Use archival-safe coin flips or capsules to store your coins.
- Join forums or local coin clubs to expand knowledge and network with collectors.
Auction Highlights and Record Sales
Some standout sales include:
- A 1916 penny in UNC condition sold for £240 at a UK auction.
- A rare double strike error sold for $560 USD on eBay.
- Certified examples from NGC/PCGS often fetch 20-30% more due to buyer confidence.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
- Not every old penny is valuable – condition and rarity matter most.
- Not all design quirks are errors – many are the result of die wear.
- GEORGIVS inscription is standard, not an error by itself.
How to Store and Protect Rare Pennies
Proper care increases value:
- Avoid PVC coin holders, which can damage coins over time.
- Store in a dry, temperature-controlled space.
- Use silica packs in coin boxes to reduce humidity.
- Handle with cotton gloves to avoid skin oil contamination.
FAQs About the 1916 One Penny GEORGIVS
How can I tell if my 1916 penny is valuable?
Check the grade, look for errors, and get it appraised by a professional.
Is the GEORGIVS V inscription an error?
No, it’s the standard Latin form of George used on British coins.
Can I sell my penny online?
Yes, platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or coin forums are ideal.
What’s the most valuable 1916 penny error?
Double strike or brockage errors in uncirculated condition are the most sought-after.
Should I clean my old penny?
Never clean old coins—it reduces their value significantly.
Where can I get my penny graded?
Use NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) or PCGS for reliable grading.
Conclusion: Is Your 1916 One Penny a Hidden Treasure?
The 1916 One Penny GEORGIVS may just be a common coin at first glance, but dig a little deeper and it could reveal rare minting errors or near-mint condition—factors that can skyrocket its value. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a curious beginner, owning a piece of WWI-era history in your collection is always a treasure.