Catalog
| Issuer | Sri Lanka (1972-date) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1978 |
| Type | Commemorative circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Rupee |
| Currency | Rupee (1972-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 7.13 g |
| Diameter | 25.4 mm |
| Thickness | 1.9 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#144 |
| Obverse description | The Armorial Ensign of Sri Lanka. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | A profile image of the President J. R. Jayewardene in the center, with value `ONE RUPEE` in Sinhala at the top of the coin and in Tamil and English on either side, with the date `1978.02.04` at the bottom and `Sri Lanka` in Sinhala below the date. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | Security |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1978 - Royal Mint - 1 997 400 1978 - Royal Mint; Proof - 20 000 1978 - Royal Mint; Right shoulder straight - 2 600 |
| Numisquare ID | 2002538950 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1978 1 Rupee coin commemorates Junius Richard Jayewardene, Sri Lanka's first Executive President. His election in 1977 and the subsequent 1978 constitutional adoption transitioned Sri Lanka from a parliamentary to a presidential republic. This era initiated significant economic liberalization and a new political landscape. The coin serves as a tangible numismatic marker of this foundational constitutional change and the dawn of a new political chapter under Jayewardene's leadership.
Artistry: While specific engraver credits are typically unrecorded, the coin reflects a post-colonial nationalist stylistic school. The obverse features a dignified, realistic portrait of President Jayewardene, characteristic of state portraiture. The reverse displays the denomination "1 RUPEE" and the year "1978" in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, often encircled by a decorative motif or the national emblem, the Sri Lankan Lion, symbolizing strength and sovereignty. Blending modern governmental representation with traditional cultural elements.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this coin measures 25.4 mm and weighs 7.13 grams. Key high-points for grading include the definition of President Jayewardene's hair, facial contours, and collar on the obverse. On the reverse, if the lion emblem is present, the details of its mane and sword are critical. Well-struck examples exhibit sharp details and full luster. Minor weakness can occasionally be observed in finer hair strands or peripheral lettering, typical of the era's striking pressures.