Ireland's modern silver coinage began in 1928 with the establishment of the Saorstát Éireann (Irish Free State) currency. These coins featured iconic animal designs that became known as the "Barnyard" series. While they were initially pegged to the standards of the United Kingdom, Ireland maintained a consistent 75% silver purity for its circulating coins until the mid-1940s.
The transition away from silver occurred earlier in Ireland than in many other nations. Circulating production effectively ceased during WWII. However, a final high-purity commemorative coin was released in 1966 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Easter Rising. This issue remains a prized target for stackers looking for Irish silver with significant bullion weight.
| Coin Type | Purity | Years | ASW (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Shillings (Pearse) | 83.3% | 1966 | 0.4860 |
| Half Crown (2s 6d) | 75.0% | 1928-1943 | 0.3409 |
| Florin (2s) | 75.0% | 1928-1943 | 0.2727 |
| Shilling (1s) | 75.0% | 1928-1942 | 0.1364 |
| 6 Pence | 75.0% | 1928-1943 | 0.0627 |
| 3 Pence | 75.0% | 1928-1943 | 0.0313 |
