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The Great Britain 1 shilling coin from 1918, cataloged as KM#816, is a significant piece of British numismatic history that reflects both the economic and political climate of post-World War I Britain. The year 1918 was pivotal for the United Kingdom, as it marked the end of the First World War and the beginning of a period of recovery and transition. The 1 shilling coin issued during this time provides a fascinating glimpse into the era’s design aesthetics and historical context.
Historically, the 1918 1 shilling was issued during the reign of King George V, who ascended to the throne in 1910. The coin was part of a series that included other denominations such as the penny and the sixpence, all featuring designs that celebrated British heritage and the monarchy. The 1 shilling coin from this period was produced to address the economic needs of a country emerging from the Great War, which had created both economic strains and a need for continued circulation of reliable currency.
The obverse of the 1918 1 shilling coin features a portrait of King George V, designed by Sir Edgar Bertram MacKennal. The king is shown in profile, wearing a traditional crown. This portrait is known for its dignified and solemn representation of George V, reflecting both the king’s role as a stabilizing figure during a turbulent time and the broader sentiments of the post-war era. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription “GEORGIVS V D.G. BRITT: OMN: REX F.D. IND: IMP:,” which stands for “George V, by the Grace of God, King of all the Britons, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.” This inscription underscores the king's authority and his role in the British Empire.
The reverse of the coin features a design created by Thomas Humphrey Paget, showcasing a crowned shield of arms representing England, Scotland, and Ireland. The shield is supported by a lion and a unicorn, which are traditional symbols of the United Kingdom. Above the shield is the denomination “ONE SHILLING,” while the date “1918” is prominently displayed below. This reverse design was intended to symbolize the unity and strength of the British nation as it moved into the post-war period. The intricate details of the design, including the crowned shield and the supporting figures, highlight the craftsmanship of British coinage during the early 20th century.
The 1918 1 shilling coin was minted at the Royal Mint, located in London, which was responsible for producing all British coinage at that time. The Royal Mint was known for its high standards of quality and precision, ensuring that each coin produced met strict criteria. The minting process for the 1918 1 shilling involved high-quality materials and techniques, resulting in a coin that was both durable and aesthetically pleasing. While exact mintage figures for this particular year are not always detailed, it is known that a significant number of coins were produced to meet the needs of the British economy and the demands of everyday transactions.
Regarding condition, the coin in question is graded as XF (Extremely Fine). An XF grade indicates that the coin is in excellent condition, with only minor signs of wear. In the case of the 1918 1 shilling, this means that the coin retains much of its original detail and luster, with only slight wear on the high points of the design. The lettering, portrait, and reverse details remain sharp and clear, making it a desirable piece for collectors. An XF grade reflects a well-maintained coin that offers a clear view of its historical and artistic significance.
The 1918 Great Britain 1 shilling coin is an important collectible that provides insight into the final year of World War I and the transition to the interwar period. Its design, featuring the portrait of King George V and the symbolic reverse, reflects the continuity and resilience of British coinage during a time of significant change. For collectors and historians, the 1918 1 shilling is a valuable artifact that encapsulates both the artistic quality and historical context of early 20th-century British currency.