Background:
One Rupee George VI King – George VI (1895-1952 CE) was the second son of King George V and Queen Mary. He was preceded by his elder brother Edward VIII. He served in the Royal Navy, the Royal Naval Air Service and the Royal Air Force, joining the Trinity College of Cambridge University thereafter. In 1920 CE, he was made the duke of York.
George was crowned unexpectedly as his elder brother Edward abdicated shortly after their father’s death. During his reign (r. 1936-1952 CE) his stable family life worked to improve his public image. When World War II began he visited soldiers across several battle fronts and raised their morale. During the Battle of Britain, he and his family refused to leave London for the safety of Canada in a brave show of solidarity with their people.
In India, George VI’s reign was important as it saw the Quit India movement, the Naval Mutiny, the partition of India and the birth of two independent states called India and Pakistan. Coins were issued in his name in India from 1938 CE to 1947 CE. He lost his title of ‘Emperor of India’ when India and Pakistan became two independent states, but was also acknowledged as the head of the Commonwealth of Nations. He succumbed to lung cancer and died aged only fifty-six. He was succeeded by his daughter Elizabeth I.
About the coin:
One Rupee coins in the name of George VI was issued between the years 1942 to 1945. George VI was the last Emperor of British India and hence, this type of coin was the last One Rupee coin to have been issued in India. This particular coin is in uncirculated condition and was issued during the World War II for standard circulation in India. The coins of this period consisted of 50% silver. It was minted from the Bombay and Lahore mints.
The other denominations that were issued in the name of George VI were 1/12 Anna, ½ Anna, ¼ Anna, 1 Anna, 2 Annas, 1 Pice, ¼ Rupee, ½ Rupee and 1 Rupee.
Obverse of the coin:
On the obverse of the coin, the crowned bust of King George VI facing the left can be seen and the legend “GEORGE VI KING EMPEROR” surrounds the bust. It is bordered by a toothed rim.
Reverse of the coin:
On the reverse of the coin the denomination and the date of issue is mentioned in English and Urdu within a circle. Outside the circle a wreath is made which is an arrangement of roses, thistle, shamrock leaves and lotus flowers. The wreath is further encircled by a toothed border.
The Specifications of this coin:
- Weight: 11.66 gm
- Diameter: 30.5 mm
- Shape: Round
- Orientation: Medal Alignment
- Edge: Security Edge
- Metal: Silver
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