How Much Is a Farthing?

Historical value

• Original monetary value: A farthing's worth was 1/4 of a penny, 1/48 of a shilling, and 1/960 of a pound sterling
• Purchasing power: By 1960, when it was demonetized, a farthing's value had significantly decreased due to inflation

Collector value today

• Rare dates: Some farthings have higher value to collectors:
  • The 1938 and 1952 wren farthings are among the scarcest dates, increasing their worth
  • The 1956 Wren Farthing is the most difficult of the Elizabeth II farthing dates to find, affecting its value
• Condition matters: Farthing worth is influenced by condition:
  • A 1951 UK Farthing in Uncirculated condition is valued at $4.99
  • A 17th century St. Patrick farthing graded Very Fine Details sold for $5,280 in 2022, showing how much a farthing can be worth
• Common farthings: Less rare farthings have lower value:
  • A lot of 20 UK Farthings from 1938-1955 is priced at $7.50, indicating a lower individual farthing worth
  • An 1886 higher grade UK Farthing coin is valued at $2.99

Factors affecting farthing value

• Rarity: Scarcer dates and types have higher farthing worth
• Condition: Better-preserved coins have increased farthing value
• Historical significance: Coins with interesting histories may have higher farthing worth
• Metal content: Some earlier farthings were made of silver, potentially increasing their value

Notable farthing types and their worth

• Three-Farthing: A rare silver coin from Queen Elizabeth I's reign, highly prized by collectors and likely to have significant value
• Wren Farthing: Featured a wren design from 1937 to the end of George VI's reign and Queen Elizabeth II's first four years, affecting its worth
• Third Farthing: A copper coin worth 1/12 penny, used exclusively in Malta from 1827 to 1913, with its own unique value

FAQ

How much was a farthing worth originally?

A farthing was originally worth 1/4 of a penny, 1/48 of a shilling, and 1/960 of a pound sterling in the British monetary system.

What is the current value of a farthing?

The current value of a farthing varies greatly depending on its rarity and condition. Common farthings may be worth a few dollars, while rare or well-preserved farthings can be worth hundreds of dollars to collectors.

Which farthing dates are the most valuable?

The 1938 and 1952 wren farthings are among the scarcest dates, making them more valuable. The 1956 Wren Farthing is considered the most difficult of the Elizabeth II farthing dates to find, increasing its worth.

How does the condition of a farthing affect its value?

The condition of a farthing significantly impacts its value. For example, a 1951 UK Farthing in Uncirculated condition is valued at $4.99, while lower-grade farthings are worth less.

Are there any exceptionally valuable farthings?

Yes, some farthings can be exceptionally valuable. For instance, a 17th century St. Patrick farthing graded Very Fine Details sold for $5,280 in 2022, demonstrating how much a rare or historically significant farthing can be worth.