Sixpence (Tanner)

The Sixpence (6d) or Tanner as it is also known was first minted in 1551 during the reign of Edward VI and was last struck for everyday usage in 1967. It measures 19.3 mm and the coins minted before 1920 contain 92.5% of silver. After this date, from 1920 to 1946, they were minted with 50% silver. The most recent Tanner (1947-1967) was struck in cupronickel. In its day, it was one of the most well-liked coins. So well-liked in fact, that it was still legal tender until well after the decimalisation came into effect. The 6 Pence represented six pennies and many consider it to be a lucky coin...

Why is a 6 Pence Lucky?

People used to be very superstitious back in the old days of the middle ages. Then, it was customary for the Lord of the Manor to give a piece of silver as a wedding gift to his bride. The 6 Pence, which was minted in the late middle ages in silver, came to be the piece of silver used as a good luck charm at weddings. In more recent times, it became a tradition for Brides to wear the coin in one shoe.

Sixpence for Sale

We currently offer 6ds in different grades from the reigns of several British Monarchs. If you wish to start a collection of British Coins, and the 6d is your chosen denomination, a good place to start is the Complete Date Set of Sixpences of Queen Elizabeth II. This set includes all the scarce and rare dates – from 1953, the year of the Coronation of the Queen, until 1967 when they ceased to strike them. We update our site regularly with new items. The best way to ensure you don’t miss out on our new stock is to subscribe to our newsletter.