25 Cents - George V

Issuer British Honduras (1862-1973)
Year 1911-1919
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 25 Cents
Currency Dollar (1885-date)
Composition Silver (.925) (Copper .075)
Weight 5.81 g
Diameter 23.2 mm
Thickness 1.8 mm
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s) Edgar Bertram MacKennal
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#17
Obverse description Crowned bust of George V facing left.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering · GEORGE V KING AND EMPEROR OF INDIA B.M.
Reverse description Value within central beaded circle, toothed rim.
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering BRITISH HONDURAS 25 CENTS · 1911 ·
Edge Reeded
Mint
Mintage 1911 - - 14 000
1919 - - 40 000
Numisquare ID 1724729550
Additional information

Historical Context: This 25 Cents coin from British Honduras was issued during King George V's reign (1910-1936), a period marking the British Empire's zenith. As a Crown Colony, British Honduras utilized standardized imperial currency, facilitating trade and economic stability. Minted between 1911 and 1919, this silver piece served as a vital medium of exchange, reflecting Britain's economic influence and the integrated monetary system of its vast territories, even amidst World War I.

Artistry: The obverse features the iconic crowned effigy of King George V facing left, a masterful work by Sir Edgar Bertram MacKennal. His portrait adheres to the neo-classical realism prevalent in early 20th-century British numismatics, emphasizing regal authority. The reverse typically displays the denomination "25 CENTS" and "BRITISH HONDURAS" encircled by a stylized wreath, often surmounted by a crown, a common and functional design motif for British colonial coinage of the era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 fine silver, measuring 23.2 mm and weighing 5.81 grams. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include George V's crown, the hair above his ear, and uniform folds. On the reverse, assess the central crown, wreath leaf tips, and raised lettering. While generally well-struck, minor weakness can occasionally be observed in finer wreath details or the monarch's hair, particularly on heavily used dies, impacting overall grade.

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