-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 39889
Checkout
The British India Bengal Presidency Trisul Pice 1816 KM#65 VF coin is a significant artifact from the early British colonial period in India. Issued by the Bengal Presidency, one of the major administrative divisions of British India, this coin represents the economic and administrative efforts of the British to standardize and regulate the currency system in their Indian territories. The Trisul Pice from 1816 is highly valued by collectors and historians for its historical significance, intricate design, and the insights it provides into the monetary practices of British India during the early 19th century.
The issuance of the Trisul Pice coin in 1816 occurred during a period of significant expansion and consolidation of British control in India. The British East India Company, which acted as an agent of British imperialism, was deeply involved in the administration and economic management of vast regions of India. The Bengal Presidency was one of the three major presidencies (along with Bombay and Madras) and played a crucial role in the British colonial administration. The introduction of the Trisul Pice coin was part of the broader efforts to establish a standardized currency system that would facilitate trade and commerce across the Indian subcontinent. The coin reflects the British Empire's endeavor to maintain economic stability and administrative efficiency in its colonies.
The obverse of the British India Bengal Presidency Trisul Pice 1816 KM#65 VF coin features a prominent trisul (trident) design, which is a significant symbol in Hinduism, representing the trident of the god Shiva. This design choice reflects the British administration's efforts to incorporate local cultural elements into the coinage, making the currency more acceptable to the local population. The trisul is surrounded by a decorative border, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the coin. The detailed engraving of the trisul showcases the high level of craftsmanship and artistry involved in the coin's production, highlighting the advanced minting techniques of the British during this era.
The reverse side of the coin prominently displays the denomination "ONE PICE" in both English and Persian script, along with the year "1816." The bilingual inscription reflects the colonial administration's efforts to accommodate the diverse linguistic population of India. The reverse design is encircled by a decorative border, similar to the obverse, ensuring a cohesive and attractive appearance. This design ensures the denomination is easily recognizable while maintaining an attractive and culturally sensitive appearance.
The British India Bengal Presidency Trisul Pice 1816 KM#65 VF coin was minted in copper, a material chosen for its durability and widespread acceptance in trade. Copper coins were commonly used for lower denominations during this period due to their ability to withstand frequent handling and their practicality for everyday transactions. The coin has a diameter of 29 mm and a weight of approximately 9.4 grams, making it a convenient size for regular use. The plain edge of the coin adds to its practicality, ensuring it could be easily produced and circulated. The choice of copper reflects economic considerations and the practical needs of the colonial economy in British India during this period.
The "VF" (Very Fine) condition of the coin indicates that it has seen moderate circulation, with some wear on the high points but still retains much of its original detail. Coins in VF condition are still highly collectible, especially when they are as historically significant as the 1816 Trisul Pice coin. The trisul design and the inscriptions remain legible, though the finer details may show signs of wear. Collectors value these coins for their historical context and the stories they tell about everyday economic life in British India. The preservation of the coin in VF condition highlights its resilience and the quality of the minting process during this period.
The mintage of the 1816 Trisul Pice coin was part of the regular coinage issued for circulation by the Bengal Presidency. These coins were produced at the Calcutta Mint, which was one of the primary mints for British India. The widespread production and circulation of the Trisul Pice coin reflect its importance as a key component of the British Indian monetary system. Despite the high mintage, coins from this period, especially those in collectible conditions, are highly sought after by numismatists. The coin’s historical significance is further enhanced by its association with the economic and administrative efforts of the British administration during the early 19th century.
India's numismatic history is rich and diverse, significantly shaped by various European colonial powers, including the British, Portuguese, French, and Dutch. The introduction of European coinage practices and designs transformed the Indian monetary system, creating a complex and varied numismatic landscape. European colonial coins in India often featured a blend of European and local elements, reflecting the cultural and administrative integration that occurred during the colonial period. These coins are valuable not only for their historical significance but also for the cultural and artistic insights they offer. The Trisul Pice coin from 1816 is a prime example of this blend, showcasing British influence while addressing the practical needs of the Indian economy.
The British India Bengal Presidency Trisul Pice 1816 KM#65 VF coin is a significant piece of numismatic history, representing the administrative and economic activities of the British East India Company in India. Its detailed design, historical context, and collectible condition make it a valuable addition to any collection. The coin not only represents a period of colonial administration and economic activity but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of British influence in the region. Collectors and historians treasure this coin for its beauty, historical significance, and the insights it provides into the broader history of British India and European colonial coinage in the Indian subcontinent. The 1816 Trisul Pice coin stands as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted history that shaped modern India and its diverse cultural heritage.