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- Product ID: 40083
The British India 1 Rupee 1917C KM#524 VF silver coin is a testament to the era of British colonial rule in India during the early 20th century. Minted under the authority of King George V, this coin served as a crucial component of the monetary system in British India, facilitating trade, commerce, and taxation within the vast subcontinent.
On the obverse side of the coin, King George V is depicted in profile facing left, wearing the Imperial Crown and regal robes. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription "GEORGE V KING EMPEROR," highlighting his dual role as the sovereign of the United Kingdom and the Emperor of India. This design underscores the hierarchical authority of the British monarchy over its extensive imperial territories, including India.
The reverse of the coin features the denomination "ONE RUPEE" encircled by a wreath composed of roses, thistles, shamrocks, and lotus flowers. Below the denomination, the year of minting "1917" and the mint mark "C" are inscribed. The floral motifs symbolize the union of England, Scotland, Ireland, and India within the British Empire, reflecting both British numismatic traditions and local Indian influences.
The British India 1 Rupee 1917C KM#524 VF silver coin is composed of .917 silver, adhering to the standard silver content used for higher denomination coins in British India during this period. It has a diameter of approximately 30.6 mm and weighs about 11.66 grams, making it suitable for widespread circulation throughout the Indian subcontinent. Despite its age and use, the coin retains its VF (Very Fine) grade, indicating moderate wear consistent with its role in everyday commerce.
The mintage of the 1 Rupee coin in 1917C reflects production at the Calcutta Mint, one of the principal minting centers in British India alongside Bombay and Madras. The Calcutta Mint played a crucial role in minting coins to meet the economic demands of British India, supporting both domestic trade and international commerce. The circulation of these coins facilitated the economic integration of India into the broader British Empire, reinforcing Britain's economic dominance over the region.
British colonialism in India had profound implications for the region's numismatic history. The introduction of standardized coinage, establishment of minting facilities, and implementation of monetary policies were essential aspects of British efforts to consolidate control and modernize administrative practices. British colonial coins, such as the 1 Rupee coin from 1917C, serve as tangible artifacts of this era, reflecting the economic, political, and cultural transformations brought about by European imperialism in South Asia.
The British India 1 Rupee 1917C KM#524 VF silver coin remains a poignant reminder of British colonial rule in India, illustrating the enduring impact of the British Empire on the region's numismatic landscape. Its historical significance, combined with its artistic design and collectible condition, makes it a prized addition to any numismatic collection. Collectors and historians value these coins not only for their monetary worth but also for the insights they provide into the complex history of British India and its interactions with indigenous cultures.