asked the Minister for Finance the number and value of farthings in circulation and the proportions thereof which are (a) in the actual custody of banks and (b) used in regular exchange between members of the public; whether it is proposed to withdraw them from circulation; and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Circulation of Farthings.
7.
Mr. Ryan
The number of farthings outstanding is 5,622,699 and the value is £5,856 19s. 6¾d.
It is understood that the number held by banks is of negligible value. I have no precise information of the extent to which farthings are used in regular exchange between members of the public but common observation indicates that they are not in active circulation.
The question of demonetising this coin is under consideration.