1931 George V Farthing – Lustrous Bronze

1931 George V Farthing – Lustrous Bronze – Key Date of Series – Superb Example

This listing is for a genuine 1931 Bronze Farthing of King George V, struck at the Royal Mint, London. Featuring the mature portrait of George V by Sir Bertram Mackennal and the seated Britannia reverse by Leonard Charles Wyon, this coin represents the last years of Britain’s traditional bronze coinage before the economic challenges of the early 1930s sharply reduced production.

The 1931 Farthing is notable for its relatively low mintage and scarcity in high grade. This particular example displays beautiful original mint lustre with golden-brown tones and an attractive, natural sheen across both obverse and reverse — a premium example of this late-issue George V bronze type.

Historical Context

By 1931, the British Empire was facing the effects of the global Great Depression, and coinage output was reduced accordingly. Bronze denominations such as the farthing saw particularly limited production, with surviving lustrous examples often preserved only by chance. The George V series (1911–1936) marks the final appearance of Britannia on the farthing, before the transition to the wren design under George VI in 1937.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: George V (1910–1936)
Denomination: Farthing (¼ Penny)
Date: 1931
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 2.83 g
Diameter: 20 mm
Edge: Plain
Mintage: 2,600,000

Design

Obverse: Portrait of King George V facing left, by Sir Bertram Mackennal. Legend: GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF: IND: IMP:.

Reverse: Britannia seated facing right, holding trident and shield. The word FARTHING above and the date 1931 below. Designed by Leonard Charles Wyon.

Condition

A superb example with original mint lustre, sharp portrait detail, and strong strike definition. Surfaces are smooth and even, displaying pleasing golden and chestnut hues under light. Exceptionally well-preserved for the issue, with full rims and clean fields.

Collectors’ Notes

The 1931 Farthing is one of the key late-date issues in the George V series. High-grade examples with strong lustre are notably scarce and highly sought-after by collectors of early 20th-century British bronze. This piece combines rarity, beauty, and historical significance — an ideal example for the discerning collector.

Our Guarantee & Terms

We accept returns provided they are sent back tracked within 14 days of receipt. All photographs are of the actual coin for sale and accurately depict its condition. Grading is subjective — please refer to the images to form your own judgement. Any questions, please feel free to contact us directly; we are always happy to help.