2 Cents Madras mint

Emissor Penang
Ano 1825-1828
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 2 Cent/Pice (0.02)
Moeda Dollar (1786-1826)
Composição Copper
Peso 17.6 g
Diâmetro 32 mm
Espessura
Formato Round
Técnica
Orientação
Gravador(es)
Em circulação até
Referência(s) Singh#SS 32, KM#16
Descrição do anverso British East India Company coat of arms with supporters. Lion rampant holding a crown between its fore paws above shield. Date Below. Beads around border.
Escrita do anverso Latin
Legenda do anverso AUSPICIO REGIS ET SENATUS ANGLIÆ 1825
(Translation: Under the auspice of the king and senate of England 1810)
Descrição do reverso Arabic inscription within wreath of lily cups running clockwise.
Escrita do reverso Arabic
Legenda do reverso قولو قينع
(Translation: Penang Island)
Bordo Plain
Casa da moeda
Tiragem 1825 - - 130 000
1825 - Proof -
1828 - - 720 000
ID Numisquare 1167885560
Informações adicionais

Historical Context: This 2 Cents copper coin, struck 1825-1828 at the Madras Mint, reflects the East India Company's (EIC) economic administration of British Penang. This era precedes the formal 1826 establishment of the Straits Settlements, with Penang a vital strategic and commercial outpost. The EIC, as governing authority, issued this currency to facilitate burgeoning trade and local transactions within its expanding colonial sphere in Southeast Asia.

Artistry: Typical of EIC colonial coinage, this issue lacks an individual engraver's signature. The design adheres to a utilitarian British imperial style, prioritizing clarity and legibility for mass circulation over artistic flourishes. Produced at the Madras Mint, a key EIC facility, the aesthetic reflects a standardized approach to colonial currency, featuring clear denominational legends, dates, and robust dies for extensive use, often without complex iconography.

Technical/Grading: For this substantial copper issue, key high-points for grading include the central "2 CENTS" denomination and date numerals, often the first areas to show wear. Encircling legends, particularly the issuer's name or EIC inscription, are also critical. Sharpness of the inner rim and definition of fields, indicating a strong strike and minimal post-mint handling, are essential for higher grades. Corrosion and planchet imperfections are common for copper issues of this period.

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