George V Irish Farthing

The George V Irish farthing, though minuscule at just 20 millimeters in diameter, was the first coin to feature the Irish harp on its reverse, symbolizing the Free State's fledgling independence while still bowing to British sovereignty.

This bronze piece, minted from 1928 to 1936 at the Royal Mint in London, carried George V's portrait on the obverse and that iconic harp on the back. Exact compositions varied slightly, but it typically included a mix of copper, tin, and zinc. Mintage figures are spotty; records for some years might have been lost in bureaucratic reshuffles of the era.

Proof strikes exist, though they're rare and often misattributed. As for circulation, these farthings saw little use beyond rural pockets, fading quickly as Ireland modernized its currency.

Demand outstripped supply for certain dates, like the 1935 issue.