George VI’s reign was overshadowed by the outbreak of the Second World War and its aftermath, which had a massive impact on the United Kingdom and the rest of the world. During the blitz, George VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth, would visit areas of London affected by bombing, which boosted the morale of the public.

The popularity of the threepence was boosted during the Second World War. Its distinctive 12-sided shape made it easier to identify during blackouts and was a favourite with bus conductors too for the same reason. At the time, a design depicting a thrift plant appeared on the reverse of the coin and it is thought this was a subtle nod to saving money by being ‘thrifty’.