Threepence (Australian coin) facts for kids
The Australian threepence (pronounced "thruppence") was a small silver coin used in Australia before the country changed its money system. People often called it a "threepenny bit." It was made from 1910 until 1964. Some years, like 1913, 1929-1933, 1937, 1945, and 1946, no threepence coins were minted. After Australia switched to decimal currency on February 14, 1966, this coin was worth 2.5 cents. It was quickly taken out of circulation.
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How World War II Affected Coin Making
During World War II, Australia needed more coins. To help, the United States Mint made some threepence coins. These coins were made in San Francisco and Denver.
Identifying US-Made Threepence Coins
Coins made at the San Francisco mint from 1942 to 1944 have a small capital "S" on the back. Coins made at the Denver mint from 1942 to 1943 have a small capital "D" on the back. These letters are called "mintmarks" and show where the coin was made.
Mintmarks on Australian Coins
- D: This means the coin was made in Denver, USA.
- M: This means the coin was made in Melbourne, Australia.
- PL: This means the coin was made in London, England.
- S: This means the coin was made in San Francisco, USA.
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