1937 Great Britain Silver Crown George VI Coronation XF–AU

The First “Spare”—The Intriguing Story Of King George VI

Long before Great Britain’s recent “Megxit” drama played out before a public eager for all the salacious details about Prince Harry and his wife Megan Markle and their rift with the Royal Family, the London tabloids were filled with equally juicy morsels related to King Edward VIII’s abdication of the throne in 1936 to wed twice-divorced American socialite Wallis Simpson. History seems to be repeating itself with a disgruntled Royal “leaving” the family for his one true love—only in King Edward’s case it caused a Constitutional crisis that nearly put the final nail in the Royal Family’s coffin!

The Royal Family’s Original “Spare”

And, just like today, there is a “Spare” in this tale. The spare in Edward’s scandal from pre-World War II times was his brother, Albert. Second in line for the throne after his older brother, “Bertie” never expected to become king. But the events of 1936 changed all that after his father, King George V, passed away and brother Edward VIII became king. So, when Albert ascended to the throne, he assumed the regnal name George VI to emphasize continuity with his father’s reign and restore confidence in the monarchy.

Honoring The Coronation Of King George VI

This Crown coin was issued at the beginning of George VI’s reign, to honor his coronation. Since Edward VIII abdicated in December of 1936 before his official coronation, all the plans for a coronation ceremony were still in place. Instead of Edward being crowned king on 12 May 1937, it was his younger brother who held the Sovereign’s Scepter and Orb and had St Edward’s Crown placed on his head. This impressive coin was beautifully struck by Great Britain’s world-renowned Royal Mint in 50% fine silver will arrive in eye-catching Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated (XF–AU) condition—a remarkable grade after nearly a century following those dramatic events. Hurry and secure yours now!