King George V British Indian Silver Coin (Likely One Rupee)
Coin/Bullion · British Royal Mint (Calcutta or Bombay Branch) representing the British Raj in India.
Pattern: Imperial British Indian Currency, George V Series (1911-1936).
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
British Royal Mint (Calcutta or Bombay Branch) representing the British Raj in India.
Material
Standard Silver (.917 purity/91.7% silver), 8.3% copper. Later issues (post-1939) switched to 'Quaternary silver' (.500 purity), but the heavy tarnish suggests a higher silver content typical of the 1911-1922 period.
Dimensions
Standard Rupee diameter is approx 30.6 mm, weight 11.66 grams (one Tola). Fractional denominations (1/2 or 1/4 Rupee) would be proportionally smaller.
Description
A classic example of British Imperial silver coinage from India. This silver rupee features a high-relief bust of King George V in his coronation robes. Often kept in families as 'ancestral silver' or used in traditional jewelry, these coins are staple artifacts of the colonial silver trade.
Key Features
The 'King Emperor' title, the crowned robe obverse, and the distinctive heavy dark tarnish (toning) characteristic of high-purity Indian silver items kept in humid climates.
Material & Composition
Standard Silver (.917 purity/91.7% silver), 8.3% copper. Later issues (post-1939) switched to 'Quaternary silver' (.500 purity), but the heavy tarnish suggests a higher silver content typical of the 1911-1922 period.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated numismatic finish with heavy oxidation. The obverse features the crowned profile of King George V facing left, wearing the Imperial Robe of State and the Collar of the Star of India. Lettering: 'GEORGE V KING EMPEROR'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silversmith hallmarks; instead, it features mint marks: a small dot or 'B' under the lotus on the reverse (not visible) for Bombay, or no mark for Calcutta. The obverse is 'Type I' or 'Type II' bust based on the elephant on the robe.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck coinage with a reeded (milled) edge to prevent silver shaving or clipping.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for British India; reeded edge serves as a security feature for precious metal verification.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a coin; however, it shows significant finger-oil tarnish and surface wear from manual circulation.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. The detail in the 'Collar of the Star of India' on the King’s robe demonstrates the precision of the British-run Indian mints.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic die-strike depth, correct lettering font for the Royal Mint, and natural gradient of tarnish. No signs of casting bubbles or 'seam lines' common in reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
India (Calcutta or Bombay Mints) under the authority of the British Imperial Government.
Era & Period
British Raj / Interwar Period (1910-1936). Specifically, the George V era of Indian colonial history.
Age Estimate
Circa 1911-1936. The crown style and legend 'KING EMPEROR' verify it is from George V's reign.
Cultural Significance
Beyond currency, these silver coins were vital for 'Dhanteras' rituals and were frequently melted down or soldered to make 'Hasli' necklaces or 'Kamarband' belts, serving as a family's portable wealth.
Condition Notes
Grade: Good to Very Good (Circulated). Visible heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits), surface scratches, and 'bag marks'. The high points of the crown and cheek show wear. Monogram or mounting marks are not visible.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD depending on the specific date on the reverse and the current silver spot price. Higher for rare dates like 1911 or 1921.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives; numismatic value is destroyed by cleaning. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Victorian Indian Rupee (Queen Victoria), Edward VII Rupee, and George VI Quaternary Silver Rupee (which contains 50% less silver).
Interesting Facts
The 1911 rupee had to be redesigned because the elephant on the King's collar looked like a pig to the local population, causing a minor scandal; this 'Pig Rupee' is now a rarity.