🔎 About the 1949 Scottish Shilling

From 1937 to 1970, Britain produced two versions of the 1 shilling coin each year: one with the English crest, and one with the Scottish. The 1949 Scottish shilling features the lion rampant on a crowned shield, a fierce and majestic symbol deeply rooted in Scottish heraldry.

Specifications:

• Material: Cupro-nickel (100%, post-silver era)

• Weight: 5.65 grams

• Diameter: 23.5 mm

• Edge: Milled

• Obverse: Portrait of King George VI

• Reverse: Scottish lion within shield, crown above, flanked by “FID DEF” and “ONE SHILLING”

• Designer (Obverse): Thomas Humphrey Paget

• Mint: Royal Mint

🕰 Historical Context

The 1949 issue comes from a time of social and political adjustment in Britain. Still emerging from the shadow of WWII, the country was redefining itself both at home and abroad. The introduction of the National Insurance Act, the continued strengthening of the NHS, and the start of decolonization were reshaping the nation's identity.

From a numismatic perspective, the 1949 Scottish shilling is firmly embedded in the post-silver era — the second year this denomination was struck in cupro-nickel only, after silver was removed entirely in 1947.

💡 Collecting Insights

• Paired National Designs: A must-have for collectors seeking both English and Scottish variants from the same year.

• Distinctive Heraldry: The bold lion design stands apart in British mid-century coinage.

• Affordable History: Common but rich in symbolism, this coin is an accessible entry point into British postwar numismatics.

From a forgotten coin pouch to your growing collection, this 1949 Scottish shilling carries the spirit of a nation rediscovering its strength — and honoring its regions.