5 Cents - King George V

Uitgever East Africa
Jaar 1913-1919
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 5 Cents (0.05)
Valuta Rupee (1906-1920)
Samenstelling Copper-nickel
Gewicht 6.48 g
Diameter 25.5 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round with a round hole
Techniek Milled
Oriëntatie Medal alignment ↑↑
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) KM#11, Schön#10
Beschrijving voorzijde Central hole divides crown and denomination surrounded by legend NOTE: The mintmark is below the N of CENTS
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde GEORGIVS V REX ET IND:IMP: FIVE CENTS K
Beschrijving keerzijde Curved tusks flank the centre hole
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde EAST AFRICA & UGANDA PROTECTORATES 5 ·1914·
Rand Smooth
Muntplaats H
Heaton and Sons / The Mint
Birmingham (Heaton and Sons / The Mint Birmingham Limited),United Kingdom (1850-2003)
K
Kings Norton Metal Company,Birmingham, United Kingdom (1890-1962)
Oplage 1913 H - - 300 000
1914 K - - 1 240 000
1914 K - Proof -
1919 H - (fr) rare - 200 000
Numisquare-ID 5024287340
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: King George V's reign (1910-1936) marked a pivotal period for the British Empire, encompassing World War I. This 5 Cents coin, issued for East Africa between 1913 and 1919, served as essential currency in a vital colonial territory. Its introduction reflects Britain's expanding monetary influence and standardization efforts across its African possessions, facilitating trade and daily transactions amidst a complex wartime economy.

Artistry: The obverse features the dignified effigy of King George V, facing left, sculpted by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal, adhering to classical realism. The reverse design is functional yet distinctive, displaying a large numeral "5" centrally, encircled by "EAST AFRICA" and "CENTS" with the date below. A characteristic central hole, common for lower denominations in the region, facilitated handling and reduced metal content, embodying a practical approach to colonial coinage design.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this series can exhibit varying strike quality. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include the king's ear, crown details, and hair. On the reverse, wear typically appears on the raised rim, the inner details of the numeral "5," and lettering. Collectors should examine the sharpness of these elements and the central hole's integrity. Environmental factors often lead to surface corrosion or pitting, impacting a coin's grade and aesthetic appeal.

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