Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1933-1936
Composition: 50% Silver
Diameter: 28.58 mm
Weight: 11.31 grams (0.1818 oz of silver)
Total Mintages: 5,855,000
Obverse Design: Bust Design
Reverse Design: Bird
Introduction
In 1933, New Zealand coinage was introduced based on a fractional system (the same as sterling). The denominations issued in 1933 were the 3pence, 6pence, shilling, florin, and half crown (a crown would not be issued until 1935).
These new coins used the same weights, sizes and denominations as the British coins. The coins authorized in 1933 were strictly silver issues as bronze coins would not be approved until 1939.
Design
The obverse, designed by Percy Metcalfe, features the bust of monarch George V facing left. On the outer periphery is the phrase "GEORGE V KING EMPEROR".
The reverse, designed by W G. E. Kruger-Gray, features a Kiwi bird that is also the National Bird of New Zealand. On the upper outer periphery is the country’s name “NEW ZEALAND” denomination “FLORIN” and the date of issue. Located to the right of the date are the designer’s initials “KG”.
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General Market Notes
The key to the series is the 1936 issue.