The sixpence (6d ), sometimes known as a tanner or sixpenny bit, is a coin that was worth six pence, equivalent to one-fortieth of a pound sterling, or half of a shilling. It was first minted 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.