Catalog
| Issuer | Southern Rhodesia (1932-1955) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1934-1936 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound (1932-1955) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 2.92 g |
| Diameter | 21.1 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Derwent Wood Reverse: Royal Mint Engravers |
| In circulation to | 1 January 1973 |
| Reference(s) | KM#6, Schön#1 |
| Obverse description | Crowned flower center around hole, Writing around |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | GEORGE V KING EMPEROR |
| Reverse description | Denomination center, date below, name around top |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | SOUTHERN RHODESIA HALF PENNY · 1934 · |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1934 - - 240 000 1934 - Proof - 1936 - - 240 000 1936 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 3424058840 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1/2 Penny of George V from Southern Rhodesia, struck 1934-1936, dates to the final years of King George V's reign (1910-1936). Part of Southern Rhodesia's inaugural independent coinage series, launched in 1932, these issues marked a crucial assertion of economic self-governance. Amidst the Great Depression, the colony replaced British sterling with its own distinct currency. This low denomination was fundamental for daily transactions, signifying the colony's growing autonomy.
Artistry: The coin's artistry merges British Imperial numismatic tradition with local symbolism. The obverse features the left-facing crowned effigy of King George V, characteristic of Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal's classical realist portraiture. The reverse design, distinctive to Southern Rhodesian coinage, depicts a Bateleur eagle with wings spread. This powerful indigenous bird motif, with denomination and country name, created a unique visual identity celebrating the region's natural heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel (2.92g, 21.1mm), the 1/2 Penny's technical qualities are vital for assessment. Key high-points on the obverse include the king's ear, crown jewels, and hair details. On the reverse, critical areas are the eagle's head, defined wing feathers, and talons. Well-struck examples show sharp feather delineation and clear crown details. Weakness often appears on the eagle's breast and finer crown points, indicating strike quality and wear.