A little more detail…
Recycled Half Crown
The half crown was a denomination of British money worth half of a crown, equivalent to two and a half shillings (30 pennies), or one-eighth of a pound. The half crown was first issued in 1549, in the reign of Edward VI. This beautiful ‘out of circulation’ half crown coin provides the perfect size raw material to create a lovely brooch or pendant. The coin design is carefully and meticulously followed with a traditional jewellers saw. Every single letter is cut around, left prominent and standing strong! Each one is completely unique and special and will last many generations as a family heirloom.
The imbedded cultural interest of a half crown coin arises from the inherent tension between its dual nature: a fraction of a crown and a significant piece of currency. This makes it a powerful metaphor for themes of incomplete sovereignty, divided loyalty, and the nuanced value of things.
A half crown can represent a king who holds partial authority, or a ruler who is weak or compromised. For instance, a half-crowned king would have a hollow or insecure hold on power, contrasting with the absolute authority of a full crown. While a crown represents divine right and perfection, the half crown suggests a ruler’s human fallibility. This points to the frailty of life, as the sovereign is only halfway to achieving a mythic, full-crowned status.
The half crown was a coin of considerable value, often the largest in common circulation, but it was not the full crown. This duality makes it a metaphor for something that is valuable and important, but ultimately a lesser version of a greater ideal.
It is a physical artifact of a bygone era, the coin also represents a nostalgic connection to the past. The half crown is a relic of pre-decimal Britain, making it a tangible link to a specific historical period. It evoke nostalgia for a time of older traditions, or as a symbol of things that have lost their original value over time.
A lovely, original, recycled coin pendant or brooch with a fantastic history. Handcrafted and recycled in Cambridge, UK. We may even have a particular year that might be relevant to you or someone close.
Size : Approx 32 mm diameter
Bruce –
Stunning
A stunning and inspirational work of art. The attention to detail is quite amazing. Friends who have seen it are amazed..
Jon –
Beautifully made
You will not get better – it’s not the cheapest coin jewellery you can find but that is because it is the best I have come across. A lot of work has gone into creating this.
Beware cheap imitations, these items are expensive because they are beautifully made.