Where to Exchange Pre-Decimal Coins and Banknotes in the UK

If you’ve uncovered a box of old pennies, shillings, or even a ten-shilling note, you may be wondering: where can I exchange pre-decimal money in the UK today?

Since decimalisation in 1971, pre-decimal coins and banknotes have not been legal tender. High street banks and even the Bank of England no longer redeem them, which leaves many households stuck with currency they can’t spend.

The good news is that there are still trusted ways to exchange pre-decimal coins and banknotes. This guide explains the options available, what you need to watch out for, and why Cash4Coins is the UK’s leading choice for turning old money into real value.

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Why Banks Won’t Exchange Pre-Decimal Currency

Unlike current withdrawn decimal notes (such as older £20 or £50 notes), pre-decimal money has been out of circulation for over 50 years. Because of this, no high street bank will accept them, and the Bank of England only exchanges decimal notes, not coins or pre-decimal notes.

That’s why specialist exchange services are the only realistic way to redeem pre-decimal currency today.

Options for Exchanging Pre-Decimal Money

Option	Availability	Pros	Cons
High Street Banks	❌ Not available	None	Do not accept pre-decimal money
Bank of England	❌ Not available	Can still exchange some decimal notes	Pre-decimal not accepted
Collectors / Dealers	✔ Limited	May pay extra for rare items	Only useful for rare coins/notes
Cash4Coins	✔ Available	Accepts all coins & notes, fast payment, charity option	Collector value not assessed

For the vast majority of people with ordinary pre-decimal money, Cash4Coins is the most practical choice.

What Pre-Decimal Coins and Notes Can You Exchange?

At Cash4Coins, we accept:

Pre-Decimal Coins

• Farthing

• Halfpenny (Ha’penny)

• Penny

• Threepence (Thruppence / Thrupenny Bit)

• Sixpence (Tanner)

• Shilling (1/-)

• Florin (Two Shillings)

• Half Crown

• Crown

• Gold coins such as Sovereigns and Half Sovereigns

Pre-Decimal Banknotes

• Ten Shilling Note (Ten Bob Note)

• £1 Note

• £5 Note

• £10 Note

• £20 Note

• £50 Note

Even damaged, corroded, or heavily worn coins are accepted.

How the Exchange Process Works

Exchanging your old coins and notes is quick and hassle-free:

1. Collect your currency – old coins, ten bob notes, etc.

2. Send to Cash4Coins – via post (for notes) or courier (for coins).

3. Counting & Sorting – all money is processed by our professional sorting machines.

4. Receive payment – straight to your bank account or donated to a charity you choose.

Most customers are paid within 48 hours of their currency being processed.

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FAQs About Exchanging Pre-Decimal Money

1. Can I still spend pre-decimal coins in shops?

No. They stopped being legal tender in 1971.

2. Do banks accept old pre-decimal notes?

No. Only decimal notes withdrawn after 1971 can be exchanged at the Bank of England.

3. Is it worth checking for rare coins before exchanging?

Yes. Some rare mint years, proof coins, or error coins may have collector value. For the majority, exchanging is the most practical option.

4. Do you accept coins in bulk?

Yes. We process bulk collections from individuals, businesses, and charities — even hundreds of kilos of old coins.

5. Can I donate pre-decimal coins to charity?

Absolutely. Cash4Coins partners with UK charities, so your old coins can directly support good causes.

6. Can I donate any foreign coins and notes?

Sure, we exchange foreign coins and notes from anywhere in the world.

Why Choose Cash4Coins?

• Trusted across the UK by banks, charities, supermarkets, airports, attractions, and police forces

• Accepts all old currency — including pre-decimal, obsolete, damaged, and foreign coins

• Fast turnaround with secure, trackable processing

• Option to donate directly to charity

• Over a decade of experience in currency exchange

Final Thoughts

Pre-decimal coins and banknotes are a fascinating piece of Britain’s history, but they don’t need to gather dust. While banks won’t redeem them, Cash4Coins offers a secure and simple way to exchange pre-decimal money across the UK.

Whether you’ve found a small stash of pennies or a bulk collection of coins, you can unlock hidden value and even support charity in the process.

Get started today at www.cash4coins.co.uk.