After a period of uncertainty, George VI became monarch following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII. George VI chose the same regnal name as his father, George V, to reinstate faith in the monarchy. His reign saw the start and end of the Second World War, as well as its aftermath and the effect it had on the United Kingdom.

The half-crown had a value of two shillings and sixpence, with 20 shillings in a pound. Although its existence was threatened by the introduction of the florin during Queen Victoria’s reign, it continued to circulate until it was demonetised in January 1970.