British India Half Rupee 1944 Silver Coin. Mint Lahore (207)

British India Half Rupee 1944 Silver Coin .Mint Lahore

Coin Name: British India Half Rupee 1944
Metal: Silver (50% purity)
Weight: Approximately 5.83 grams
Diameter: 24 mm
Edge: Milled
Mint: Calcutta Mint

Obverse Design:
The obverse features a left-facing portrait of King George VI, the last reigning monarch of British India, with the legend "GEORGE VI KING EMPEROR" encircling the design. The king is depicted wearing the Imperial State Crown, a prominent symbol of the British Empire.

Reverse Design:
The reverse showcases the denomination "HALF RUPEE", the year "1944", and the legend "INDIA", all encircled by an intricate floral design. The floral pattern consists of stylized flowers, leaves, and vines, representing the rich artistic traditions of India.

Historical Context:
The British India Half Rupee 1944 was issued during World War II, a period of economic strain and changing policies. While earlier Indian rupee coins were struck in higher silver content, by this time, the silver composition was reduced to 50% due to the global shortage of precious metals. These coins represent an important transitional period in Indian numismatics, as they were among the last silver coins minted before India's independence in 1947.

Collector's Note:
The 1944 Half Rupee is a sought-after coin among numismatists due to its historical significance and intricate design. Coins in uncirculated or high-grade conditions are particularly valuable. Look for sharp details in the king's portrait and the floral pattern, as these are key to assessing the coin's condition and value.

Trivia:

• The Calcutta Mint produced all the 1944 Half Rupee coins, identifiable by the absence of a mint mark below the date.
• This coin is part of a larger series that included other denominations such as the quarter rupee and one rupee.

This coin is a beautiful piece of history and a must-have for collectors of British Indian coinage.