My Penny Collection
Welcome to My Penny Collection, a personal showcase of copper and bronze pennies of Great Britain. This collection spans nearly two centuries of British history, beginning with the first copper cartwheel penny of George III in 1797 and continuing through to the final bronze proof pennies of Elizabeth II in 1970, before the introduction of decimal coinage.
Each section of the collection highlights the artistry, rarity, and historical significance of British pennies issued under different monarchs. From early copper issues to later bronze strikes, this site provides an overview of designs, portraits, and varieties that shaped British numismatics.
Featured Monarchs and Penny Issues
George III (1760 – 1820)
Including the famous cartwheel penny of 1797, a landmark in British coinage.
George IV (1820 – 1830)
Distinctive designs reflecting a short reign.
William IV (1830 – 1837)
Scarcer issues, often highly collectible.
Queen Victoria (1837 – 1901)
Five major design changes, from Young Head to Old Head, representing over 60 years of coinage history.
Edward VII (1901 – 1910)
Classic Edwardian style with limited varieties.
George V (1910 – 1936)
Pennies from the First World War era through to rare low-mintage dates.
Edward VIII (1936)
Pattern coins only, due to the abdication.
George VI (1936 – 1952)
Wartime issues and later bronze pennies.
Elizabeth II (1952 – 1970)
The last bronze pennies before decimalisation.
Special Sections
Patterns
Rare experimental strikes and proposed designs.
Other
Unique varieties, errors, and unusual examples that add interest to the collection.
Why Collect British Pennies?
British pennies are more than coins – they are pieces of history. Each design reflects the monarch, politics, and artistry of its time. Collectors value them for their history, rarity, and investment potential. Whether it’s the iconic 1797 cartwheel, the sought-after 1933 penny, or a well-struck proof of Elizabeth II, each coin tells a story of Britain’s past.
About This Collection
This site is intended as a reference and personal record of a private British penny collection. Several rarities and high-grade examples are included, making it a useful guide for fellow collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts. From time to time, new coins are added or updates made to improve the content.
If you have coins available that might enhance the collection, or if you’d like to share comments and questions, please feel free to get in touch: [email protected]