Rare 1940 Irish Pre-decimal Penny coin

Rare 1940 Irish Penny Coin

Specifications

Mass: 9.45 grams

Diameter: 30.9 mm (1.215 inches)

Thickness: 1.90 mm

Edge: Plain

Composition: Bronze (95.5% copper, 3% tin, 1.5% zinc) [1]

Iconic Design

The pre-decimal coin series was organised by a committee led by poet W.B. Yeats, who recommended using native agricultural animals. English artist Percy Metcalfe designed the distinct motifs used throughout the lifespan of the coin: [1, 2, 3, 4]

The Obverse (Front): Features the traditional Irish harp. From 1928 to 1937, the inscription read Saorstát Éireann (Irish Free State) with a split date. From 1939 onward, it was changed to Éire. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

The Reverse (Back): Features a distinctive profile of a hen with five chicks along with the word pingin. The design was slightly modified in 1938 to improve how the metal flowed when struck. [1, 2]