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The British West Africa 1/10 Penny 1945 KM#20 BU coin is a significant artifact from the era of British colonial governance, designed to facilitate economic transactions within West Africa. This particular denomination, often known as a "tenth penny" or "tickey," was widely used across the British colonies, which included modern-day Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia. Minted in the final year of World War II, this coin encapsulates a period of intense economic and social transition in the region.
Characteristic of the coins from this era, the 1/10 Penny features a distinctive central hole, making it uniquely identifiable and easy to handle, a practical design choice for active market environments. The obverse of the coin proudly displays the imperial crown, symbolizing British sovereignty, while the reverse announces the denomination and the year of minting, encircled by the inscription "British West Africa." This design not only served practical purposes but also projected the image of British order and civility.
This particular coin is in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, indicating that it has never been used in circulation and retains all of its original mint luster. Such a state of preservation is highly prized among collectors for its rarity and the pristine detail it preserves, offering a window into the coin’s production quality and the minting standards of the time.
The mintage of the 1/10 Penny in 1945 reflects the colonial administration's efforts to maintain a robust currency system that would stabilize the local economy and facilitate trade during a tumultuous period marked by global conflict and the beginnings of decolonization. These coins were crucial in everyday transactions and played a vital role in the economic strategies implemented by the British to control and develop the colonial economies.
A significant historical note about West Africa during this period is the region's role in the global economic network of the British Empire. The production and circulation of coins such as the 1/10 Penny were integral to the economic systems that supported colonial infrastructure and enterprise. Moreover, the end of World War II marked a pivotal moment for the colonies, as it ushered in movements towards independence and self-governance, making this coin a relic of the final years of colonial rule.
In conclusion, the British West Africa 1/10 Penny 1945 KM#20 BU is more than just a monetary unit; it is a historical document that narrates a story of colonial ambition, economic integration, and the transition towards independence. Its excellent condition and the context of its circulation provide deep insights into the colonial history of West Africa, making it an invaluable piece for both collectors and historians interested in the economic and political heritage of the region.