The Elizabeth II 5 New Pence, issued between 1968 and 1981, is a classic piece of early British decimal coinage. Introduced ahead of decimalisation in 1971, this large-format 5 pence coin helped mark one of the biggest changes in Britain’s monetary history.

The obverse features Arnold Machin’s elegant portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, while the reverse displays a crowned Scottish thistle designed by Christopher Ironside, together with the original “NEW PENCE” denomination.

Struck in copper-nickel, these substantial coins measure approximately 23.6 mm in diameter and were considerably larger than the modern 5 pence pieces used today. With its distinctive thistle design, large size and connection to Britain’s transition to decimal currency, the 1968–1981 5 New Pence is an appealing addition to collections of Elizabeth II coins, British decimal currency and vintage UK coinage.