How Much Is a Sixpence Worth Today?
A sixpence was worth six old pence — 2½p in today's money.
Known as a 'tanner', it's the coin behind the wedding tradition of a sixpence in the bride's shoe, and silver ones are collectable.
At a glance
- Old value
- Sixpence (6d)
- Today's face value
- 2½p
- Nickname
- A 'tanner'
- Famous for
- The 'lucky sixpence'
How much is a sixpence worth today?
A sixpence converts to 2½p — it was six old pence, half a shilling. Silver sixpences are worth more for their metal, and there's steady demand from couples after a 'lucky sixpence' for the bride's shoe.
Its purchasing power was far greater than that figure buys now, because prices have risen enormously through inflation since it was in circulation. You can see how much any old amount is worth in today's money with our inflation calculator.
What was a sixpence?
The sixpence — half a shilling, six old pence — was a small silver coin (nicknamed the 'tanner') struck from 1551 right up to decimalisation. It was sterling silver until 1920, reduced-silver until 1946, then cupronickel. Like the shilling, it was popular enough to keep circulating (as 2½p) until 1980.
A sixpence in today's money
Six old pence converts to 2½p. Its purchasing power was far greater — for generations a sixpence was pocket-money, enough for sweets or a small treat.
For context, the old system ran on pounds, shillings and pence (£sd): £1 was 20 shillings, and each shilling was 12 pence. See how much a shilling is worth today for the coin at the heart of it.
Are old sixpences worth anything to collectors?
Pre-1947 sixpences are silver and worth their bullion value and more, with scarcer dates and high grades commanding a premium. There's also steady demand from couples wanting a 'lucky sixpence' for a wedding shoe, which keeps even common ones modestly collectable.
If old coins interest you, our guide to what makes coins valuable is a good next read.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 'lucky sixpence' tradition?
An old wedding rhyme ends '…and a sixpence in her shoe'. A sixpence tucked in the bride's shoe was said to bring prosperity — a tradition that keeps old sixpences in demand.
Why was a sixpence called a tanner?
'Tanner' was long-standing slang for a sixpence. Its exact origin is uncertain, but the nickname stuck for generations.
Other old coins: Shilling · Crown · Half crown · Florin · Guinea · Threepence · Farthing
Coin values are a general guide only. Collector values vary widely by date, condition and metal — for a valuable coin, get it assessed by a reputable dealer or auction house.
