Last Updated on July 3, 2022
The Australian halfpenny coin was the lowest-denomination circulating currency in Australia.
It’s worth noting that the size and composition of this coin are identical to those of the British pre-decimal halfpenny (which it is derived from) (for a period, the coins circulated simultaneously in Australia but not in the United Kingdom; currencies were fixed at par).
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How Much is 1917 Australian Half Penny Worth?
At retail, the 1917 Australian halfpenny value can range from $1 to over $400, depending on state of wear, desirability, demand, and availability in that relative state of preservation.
The reverse of these Australian halfpenny coins has no writing on it. In 1939, a new design was introduced, replacing the previous version, which featured the iconic leaping kangaroo.
After 49 years in circulation, the coins issued in 1917 were discontinued at decimalisation in 1966 and have never been formally demonetised, making them still legal currency.
Obverse
The King George V facing left (crowned effigy by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal) features the following text: The King is wearing the Imperial Crown and the ermine Robe of State, the Collar of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, and the Badge of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath.
The initials BM are in relief on the bust truncation.
The monarch’s motto, GEORGIVS V D. G. BRITT: OMN: REX F. D. IND: IMP, translates to “George the Fifth, by the Grace of God King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.”
Reverse
The inscription ONE HALF PENNY is located in the centre of a circle of beads, above a plain scroll. Around above, outside the circle of beads, THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA; below, the year 1917.
The Calcutta Mint’s mint mark I (for India) is located beneath the scroll.
Australian Half Penny History
The Australian pre-decimal halfpenny coin, often referred to as a ha’penny ( pronounced /heɪˈpəni/), was the smallest currency unit in circulation in Australia. It was a monetary unit equal to half of a penny, one-quarter of a shilling.
The coin was created to be equivalent to the British halfpenny, and its dimensions, composition, and values were all identical. Furthermore, the two currencies were set at par.
The coin was first minted in 1911, and production ceased in 1965 when the decimal system was implemented. The value of the coin was changed on February 14th, 1966, to 0.41666 c (5/12 c).
The reverse of the coin depicted the current reigning monarch of Australia (excluding 1936, when Edward VIII was king). King George V, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II were represented three times. The Kangaroo Reverse was used on all George VI and Elizabeth II halfpennies.
From 1911 until 1964, Australia produced a series of commemorative coins in the name of its decimal currency. Halfpennies were issued in Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney; afterwards they were produced exclusively in Birmingham. They were minted in Calcutta (Calcutta and Bombay) and London.
How To Determine The Value Of 1917 Penny?
To obtain a precise value, you must first determine the grade. When looking at your coin as a whole, the first impression is key. The colors are even and there are no obnoxious scratches or dents.
Uncirculated Grade
The first thing to look for is a continuous layer of mint luster over the entire surface. Mint state is defined by uninterrupted luster – uncirculated grade.
Examine carefully to ensure that the original surfaces have not lost their texture or luster. Smoothness and color change from adjacent areas are signs of wear.
The 1917 penny has a lovely face and eye appeal is a good indication of its worth. Collectors evaluate not only the amount of wear on a coin, but also its attractiveness. Appeal increases with ample original luster.
Fine Grade
These pennies have moderate to severe wear on them.
Because of the lighter yellow hues mixed with browns, the 1917-S cent’s coloration is unusual. It has appeal to some and a more uniform tone to others. This is an example of the influence of aesthetics on value.
Good Grade
Minor and major detail eliminates wear in a coin’s grade. The design has a consistent flat surface through its middle, from top to bottom. A flat plane has formed as a result of metal that is worn smooth.
