Joey - threepence coin

Posted by TheFallen on March 19, 2003

In Reply to: Joey - threepence coin posted by James Briggs on March 19, 2003

: : Apparently there used to be a British coin worth three pence, nicknamed a "Joey". I came across this word in George Orwell's Keep the Aspidastra Flying. Apparently the coin was very unpopular, either because of its unusual value or size? Does anyone know where the nickname Joey came from? Thanks...

: There were two types of threepenny pieces prior to decimalisation in 1972 - an small (8mm) older version, originally silver and a later, different, larger(13mm) and more common type of coin - 8 sided and made of some yellow metal. The former was known as a 'Joey', but not the latter. Sadly, I don't know where 'Joey' came from. If I find out I'll post an answer.

Picky point of order. The later threepenny bit, maybe now best remembered for the expression "she's got a fine pair of thrupennies", had 12 sides.

• Joey - threepence coin masakim 03/19/03
  • Joey - threepence coin masakim 03/19/03