Catalogus
| Uitgever | German East Africa |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 1904-1914 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | 1/2 Rupee |
| Valuta | Decimalized Rupee (1904-1916) |
| Samenstelling | Silver (.917) |
| Gewicht | 5.8319 g |
| Diameter | 24.4 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round |
| Techniek | Milled |
| Oriëntatie | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | Obverse: Emil Weigand Reverse: Otto Schultz |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | KM#9, Schön#12 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Helmeted half-length figure in uniform facing left. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift voorzijde | GUILELMUS II IMPERATOR |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Value within palm branches. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
DEUTSCH OSTAFRIKA 1/2 RUPIE 1904 J A (Translation: German East Africa) |
| Rand | Reeded |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
1904 A - - 400 000 1904 A - Proof - 150 1906 A - - 50 000 1906 A - Proof - 58 1906 J - - 50 000 1907 J - - 140 000 1907 J - Proof - 1909 A - - 100 000 1910 J - - 300 000 1910 J - Proof - 1912 J - - 200 000 1913 A - - 100 000 1913 J - - 200 000 1914 J - - 100 000 |
| Numisquare-ID | 1017237520 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context: This 1/2 Rupie coin was issued under Wilhelm II, German Emperor, during the peak of the German colonial empire (1904-1914). It functioned as essential currency in German East Africa (Deutsch-Ostafrika), a vast and strategically vital territory. The Rupie system, adapted from Indian coinage, facilitated trade and cemented German economic and administrative control. Its production ceased abruptly with the onset of World War I, signaling the decline of German colonial power.
Artistry: The 1/2 Rupie's design exemplifies the formal aesthetic of German imperial coinage from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This school prioritizes classical realism and imperial authority. The obverse presents a dignified, right-facing bust of Wilhelm II, asserting his imperial status. The reverse prominently features the crowned imperial eagle, a powerful emblem of German sovereignty, accompanied by the denomination and the colonial designation "DEUTSCH-OSTAFRIKA."
Technical/Grading: Struck in .917 fine silver, this coin possesses significant precious metal content. Key high-points for grading include Wilhelm II's uniform and hair on the obverse. On the reverse, critical areas are the fine feathering on the imperial eagle's breast and wings, along with the intricate crown details. While typically well-struck, slight weakness can occur on the highest relief elements, such as the eagle's wingtips. Examples retaining full original luster and minimal contact marks are highly valued.