1971 Britain Decimal Coin Set

Hi Potbellypub,

These sets were sold by banks in the UK from Spring 1968 for a small premium above face value. The 5p and 10p in the sets were dated 1968, and the three bronze coins 1971, as those coins would not enter circulation until February 15, 1971. I think the sets were available right up to 1971 - I've heard of some with 5p and 10p coins in them dated 1969.

The blue plastic packaging unfortunately contains PVC and many of the coins are now heavily toned and sometimes rather sticky. But lots of collectors keep one of these sets intact as a reminder of the decimal changeover period.

Only the 1p and 2p coins from this set are still legal tender (and even then the composition of the coins has changed since). The half new penny was demonetised from January 1, 1985, and the 5p and 10p (which were the same dimensions as the existing shilling and florin) were replaced by smaller coins in 1990 and 1992 respectively.

Note that these plastic sleeves contain PVC. This will cause the coins to corrode over time. The first step is that they will start to feel greasy. Then they get green goo on them and eventually they will get permanently corroded and the underlying metal will get eaten away. You should remove the coins form the holder. If they are already greasy, you should restore the coins using any of the usual methods. Acetone will work, as will verdicare. I like to use WD40. It sounds odd, but it does not impact the finish or lustre and it will remove PVC goo very nicely. Gently use a Q tip and then wash in a mild liquid soap and rub with the fingers.

I had the set bought by my parents but a few year back I bought 10 sets for £5 from a post card fair.They have no collector value apart from ebay mugs.I love history so they are just tucked away in the bottom drawer.For 50p a pop I couldn't resist.My £5 in a building society would be worth £5.01 now.