Elizabeth II 3rd portrait; non-magnetic

Description

This is the 1987 BU issue with a mintage of 172,425. The Elizabeth II 1 pence coin featuring the third portrait was issued in 1985 by the Royal Mint and is notable for its striking design and substantial mintage of 3,259,321,948 pieces, making it a common item in circulation and giving it a rarity score of 1 out of 10. The obverse showcases the right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by the renowned engraver Ian Rank-Broadley, while the reverse features the iconic design of a single sprig of oak, symbolizing strength and endurance, which is a classic motif in British coinage. The coin's bronze composition and non-magnetic properties set it apart from later issues, as changes in materials for lower denomination coins occurred in subsequent years. For numismatists, this coin represents a significant era in British coinage, reflecting both the continuity of the monarchy and the everyday economy of the United Kingdom during the 1980s. Its high mintage ensures accessibility for collectors, while its historical context provides insights into the socio-economic conditions of the time.