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The Mauritius 5 Cents 1945, cataloged as KM#20 and graded as AU (About Uncirculated), is a fascinating numismatic specimen that encapsulates the history, artistry, and charm of the island nation of Mauritius. Mauritius, situated in the Indian Ocean, has a rich and diverse history shaped by a tapestry of cultures and colonial influences. The island was initially discovered by the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by brief Dutch and French settlements. In 1810, the British Empire gained control of Mauritius, a dominion that lasted until the island's independence in 1968. The 5 Cents coin from 1945 hails from this colonial period, bearing the influence of British colonial rule on Mauritian currency.
The obverse side of the coin features the bust of King George VI, who was the reigning monarch during the time of issue. King George VI's portrait is surrounded by the inscription "GEORGE VI KING EMPEROR." This portrayal adheres to the tradition of featuring the ruling British monarch on colonial coinage. The reverse side of the coin showcases Mauritius' national emblem. At the center, there is a dodo bird, an extinct species endemic to Mauritius and now an iconic symbol of the island's unique fauna. Surrounding the dodo bird are sugarcane plants, alluding to the island's important sugar industry. The denomination "5 CENTS" and the year of issue, "1945," complete the reverse design.
Specific mintage figures for this coin are not readily available in many numismatic references, but coins from this era were typically struck in limited quantities. The coin was likely minted at a British Royal Mint facility or a colonial mint that served the British Empire during this period. These mints adhered to the high standards of British coinage, ensuring that the coins met the specifications set by the British Crown.
This coin is graded as AU, which stands for About Uncirculated. In numismatic terms, AU suggests that the coin exhibits minimal wear, with traces of mint luster still visible. The design and inscriptions are sharp and well-preserved, offering collectors an opportunity to appreciate the coin's details.
One of the most captivating natural wonders of Mauritius is the Trou aux Cerfs, an extinct volcano that has transformed into a lush crater. Located in the town of Curepipe, this dormant volcanic crater offers visitors the chance to walk around its rim and gaze into the verdant basin below. The site not only provides breathtaking panoramic views of the island but also serves as a reminder of Mauritius' volcanic origins.
The Mauritius 5 Cents 1945, cataloged as KM#20 and graded as AU, serves as both a historical artifact and a numismatic treasure. Its elegant design pays homage to Mauritius' unique natural heritage, particularly the dodo bird, while also reflecting the island's colonial history under British rule. With its About Uncirculated condition, this coin retains its original appeal and offers collectors a glimpse into Mauritius' past. Moreover, the fun fact about the Trou aux Cerfs volcano adds an extra layer of intrigue to the island's rich tapestry of natural wonders.