sixpence.

About sixpence

The British sixpence coin, sometimes known as a tanner, was a denomination of sterling coinage worth six old pence: 1⁄40 of a pound or half a shilling. In 1971 it became worth the equivalent of 2.5 new pence. It was first minted in England in 1551, during the reign of Edward VI, and circulated until 1980. The coin was made from silver from its introduction in 1551 until 1947, and thereafter in cupronickel.