British India 1/2 Pice George V Bronze Coin, 1912
Coin/Bullion · Calcutta Mint (Royal Mint branch), British Raj India
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage, George V King & Emperor series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Calcutta Mint (Royal Mint branch), British Raj India
Material
Bronze (Copper 95%, Tin 4%, Zinc 1%); Note: This is not silver
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.3 mm; Weight: approx. 2.43 grams; Thickness: 1.15 mm
Description
A fine example of early 20th-century colonial currency. This 1/2 Pice coin features the distinct floral wreath typical of British Indian coinage. While it resembles silver to those unfamiliar with the series, it is actually a copper-based bronze alloy. The reverse side clearly denotes its denomination and the year of mintage during the second year of George V's reign.
Key Features
Distinctive floral wreath border; Serif typography 'PICE'; Early 20th-century date
Material & Composition
Bronze (Copper 95%, Tin 4%, Zinc 1%); Note: This is not silver
Finish & Decoration
Struck with a matte to semi-gloss finish; features a floral wreath on the reverse encircling the text
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text: '1/2 PICE INDIA 1912'; Mint mark (if visible) from Calcutta or Bombay mints
Construction Details
Machine-struck; Die-pressed from planchet with a smooth edge
Functional Features
Standard fractional currency used in the British Raj
Handle & Grip Details
None; Circular flat coin with a smooth rim
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial minting; clear die-work on floral elements despite circulating wear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth and lettering; legitimate historical patina consistent with bronze oxidation rather than silver tarnish.
Origin & Manufacturing
India (likely Calcutta or Bombay Mint), British Colonial Administration
Era & Period
British Raj (1858–1947), specifically Edwardian/George V transition era
Age Estimate
Dated 1912; Early 20th Century
Cultural Significance
A relic of the British Empire's economic control over India, representing the everyday commerce of the colonial subjects.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; shows significant surface tarnish/patina, minor handling marks, and edge wear. Legend remains legible.
Value Estimate
$1.00 to $5.00 USD for standard circulated examples; higher for uncirculated specimens.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver polish as this is bronze; store in a PVC-free coin flip or non-reactive capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1/12 Anna, 1/4 Anna, and 1 Pice coins of the same era use similar floral motifs but different sizes.
Interesting Facts
The Pice was a unit equal to 1/4 of an Anna or 1/64 of a Rupee; George V was the first British monarch to visit India for his Durbar in 1911, just before this coin was minted.