Expert: Brad Swain - 2/10/2010

Question
How can I find the value of the british pennies that I have.  I have a 1886 British penny(large) and  I also have a large 1912 British penny and last I have a 1942 Australia penny(large) It would be very kind of you to help me or please tell me how I can find out, they are my fathers and we would like to keep them in the family so thank you for all of your help!!!

Answer
Hi James, There were 6.1 million of these 1886 bronze British pennies minted that year and it features King George V (1910-36) on one side and on the other side is the allegorical figure of Britannia with shield and a trident which symbolizes Britain's mastery of the seas and worldwide empire. The abbreviated Latin legend stands for By the Grace of God, Ruler and King of Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India. It may be worth about .25 with heavy wear to around $12 with moderate wear to maybe $40 with light wear.
For the 1912 penny there may be a small H mintmark to the left of the date. If so, it is one of the 16.8 million minted at the Heaton mint and it may be worth about .25, $8, $75 in the same conditions as listed above. If without a mintmark it had a mintage of 48.3 million and may be worth .20, $2.50, $17.
The 1942 Aussie penny may have dots before and after Penny, after, but not before, Penny, or an I below the king's bust.
With more info I'll be glad to help further.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad