How Much Is a Threepence Worth Today?
A threepence — the 'thruppenny bit' — was worth three old pence, or 1¼p in today's money.
Its chunky twelve-sided brass shape makes it one of the most recognisable of all the old British coins.
At a glance
- Old value
- Threepence (3d)
- Today's face value
- 1¼p
- Shape
- 12-sided brass (1937–67)
- Nickname
- Thruppenny bit
How much is a threepence worth today?
A threepence converts to 1¼p — it was three old pence, a quarter of a shilling. The chunky twelve-sided brass 'thruppenny bit' is common, but a few scarce dates are worth a good deal more.
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 threepence?
The threepence was worth three old pence, a quarter of a shilling. The familiar chunky, twelve-sided brass version was introduced in 1937 and made until 1967 — its distinctive shape helped people recognise it by touch. Earlier threepences were tiny silver coins, some of which survive as Maundy money.
A threepence in today's money
Three old pence converts to 1¼p. As a quarter of a shilling it had no exact decimal coin equivalent, so it was withdrawn at decimalisation.
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 threepences worth anything to collectors?
Common brass thruppenny bits are usually worth under a pound, but certain dates are scarce — the 1946 and 1949 brass threepences, and the extremely rare 1937 Edward VIII pattern, are the ones collectors chase. Small silver threepences can carry a premium too.
If old coins interest you, our guide to what makes coins valuable is a good next read.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a threepence twelve-sided?
The twelve-sided brass threepence was introduced in 1937 with a distinctive shape so it could be recognised instantly by touch and stood out from other coins.
Are brass threepences worth anything?
Most are worth a little above face value, but scarce dates like 1946 and 1949 can be worth considerably more to collectors.
Other old coins: Shilling · Crown · Half crown · Florin · Guinea · Sixpence · 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.
