1/4 Rupie - Wilhelm II

Uitgever German East Africa
Jaar 1904-1914
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1/4 Rupee
Valuta Decimalized Rupee (1904-1916)
Samenstelling Silver (.917)
Gewicht 2.92 g
Diameter 19.2 mm
Dikte 1 mm
Vorm Round
Techniek Milled
Oriëntatie Medal alignment ↑↑
Graveur(s) Obverse: Emil Weigand
Reverse: Otto Schultz
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) KM#8, Schön#11
Beschrijving voorzijde Left facing Wilhelm II
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde GUILELMUS II IMPERATOR
Beschrijving keerzijde Wreaths. Value, date and mint mark, within
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde DEUTSCH OSTAFRIKA 1/4 RUPIE 1910 J
(Translation: German East Africa)
Rand Reeded
Muntplaats A
Berlin, Germany (1280-date)
J
Hamburgische Münze, Germany(801-date)
Oplage 1904 A - - 300 000
1904 A - Proof - 150
1906 A - - 300 000
1906 A - Proof - 118
1906 J - - 100 000
1907 J - - 200 000
1907 J - Proof -
1909 A - - 300 000
1910 J - - 600 000
1910 J - Proof -
1912 J - - 400 000
1912 J - Proof -
1913 A - - 200 000
1913 A - Proof -
1913 J - - 400 000
1913 J - Proof -
1914 J - - 200 000
1914 J - Proof -
Numisquare-ID 1435024770
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: The 1/4 Rupie, issued from 1904 to 1914, signifies a crucial era of German colonial rule under Emperor Wilhelm II in German East Africa. This silver coinage served as the official currency, solidifying Germany's economic control and imperial ambitions. It facilitated trade, taxation, and the integration of the colony into the German economic system. Production ceased with the outbreak of World War I, foreshadowing the eventual dissolution of German colonial power.

Artistry: The coin's design reflects the German Imperial numismatic style of the period. While a specific engraver is unrecorded, the aesthetic emanates from the Imperial Mint's design department. The obverse features the crowned Imperial Eagle, a potent symbol of German sovereignty, encircled by "DEUTSCH-OSTAFRIKA." The reverse presents "1/4 RUPIE" within an oak wreath, surrounded by "DEUTSCHES REICH" and the year, embodying clear national symbolism and functional clarity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .917 fine silver, this coin generally exhibits strong strike quality. For grading, key high-points for wear assessment include the Imperial Crown and the eagle's breast feathers on the obverse. On the reverse, the raised elements of the oak wreath and the denomination lettering are prone to abrasion. Uncirculated examples retain strong luster and sharp definition, while circulated pieces show flattening on these areas, reflecting their active role in colonial commerce.

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