In 1946, the Indian government was actively testing nickel as a replacement for the cupro-nickel alloys used in smaller denominations, anticipating the monetary disruptions that would accompany Partition and independence. This piece is a pattern — never approved for circulation — struck to evaluate the composition rather than finalize a coinage series that, within two years, would belong to two entirely separate nations.
The KM#Pn1 designation confirms its pattern status. Very few examples were struck, distributed only to official evaluators.
In 1946, the Indian government was actively testing nickel as a replacement for the cupro-nickel alloys used in smaller denominations, anticipating the monetary disruptions that would accompany Partition and independence. This piece is a pattern — never approved for circulation — struck to evaluate the composition rather than finalize a coinage series that, within two years, would belong to two entirely separate nations.
The KM#Pn1 designation confirms its pattern status. Very few examples were struck, distributed only to official evaluators.