George VI reigned during one of the most historically significant periods in history, which saw the start, the end and the aftermath of the Second World War. During the blitz, George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited bombed areas throughout London, boosting public morale and ensuring that the British monarchy became a symbol of unity for the people.

The ship design that appears on this halfpenny was intended for the definitive coinage of Edward VIII. However, as George VI’s elder brother abdicated before any coins could be struck for circulation, it was decided that this beautiful design by Humphrey Paget would appear on George VI’s coins instead.