The story of how Four Pence began is an unconventional one. I studied Product & Furniture Design at university and was meant to study in Barcelona during my 3rd year. Unfortunately due to COVID this was cancelled. I was stuck at home, eager to do something creative.

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When my grandfather died he left me two bags of old English 3P coins. In 1971 the UK decimalised, this meant we moved from the old monetary system to 100 pence in the pound. The 3P coin was going to be discontinued and my grandfather saw this as an investment opportunity. He went to the bank and bought £40 worth, hoping one day they’d go up in value.

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Fast forward to 2021 I was in stuck in lockdown, and decided to make something with these coins. I started drilling holes in them, turning them into necklaces and bracelets. I was just having fun but ended up falling in love with the process. I watched videos and read blogs, learning everything I could about jewellery. I’d always loved wearing it so to start making it was a really happy accident.

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I went back to Uni and set up a workshop in the shed at the end of our garden. I was determined to carry on making jewellery whilst I finished my degree. After another year, I completed my course and found a part time job so I could carry on building Four Pence in my spare time. I set up a ‘studio’ in my bedroom and did whatever I could to make it work. Eventually, that started to happen. My skills got better, I started selling more and decided to rent a proper studio. Things progressed much more quickly at this point and I’ve now had the opportunity to work with big brands like Pepsi and Asda.

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So much has happened in the last 4 years, it’s crazy to think how times have changed. I’m so incredibly grateful to everyone who’s supported Four Pence throughout this journey, it’s a real pleasure to now call this my job. The most exciting part is we’re only just getting started. I have big plans coming and I can’t wait to see where Four Pence is in the next 4 years!  

- Rufus Dorey (Founder)