A Petite One-Rupee Coin from the Year 1890

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Queen Victoria, who ruled from 1837 to 1901, left behind one of the most fascinating and collectible coin series in the history of British India. Her long reign is divided into four major coinage eras, each with distinct designs that help collectors identify and categorize coins.

1. 1840–1850: Continuous Legend (East India Company): These early Victorian coins show a young portrait with the words VICTORIA QUEEN written in one smooth, unbroken circle around the bust. Collectors appreciate this era for its elegant engraving and early die varieties.

2. 1850–1860: Divided Legend (East India Company): Here, the portrait interrupts the legend, VICTORIA appears on one side and QUEEN on the other.

This simple change creates an important variation for identifying mid-century issues.

3. 1862–1876: Imperial Coinage (Crown Rule): After the British Crown took direct control in 1858, a new uniform series began in 1862. Although these coins all show the same date, “1862,” different dot marks, mint varieties, and dies help pinpoint their actual production years. Continuous year-dating starts from 1874, making later pieces easier to attribute.

4. 1877–1901: Victoria Empress: When Victoria received the title Empress of India, the coins shifted to the new legend VICTORIA EMPRESS. These issues feature a more mature portrait and include many attractive mint and die varieties.

 

I examined an 1890 One Rupee coin that had a diameter of 30 mm, a thickness of 2 mm, and a weight of approximately 11.35 g. The reeded edge appeared sharp, deep, and evenly spaced. The “VICTORIA EMPRESS” lettering on the obverse matched the style and spacing found on regular coins, and the rim denticles looked consistent. On the reverse side, the floral engravings were detailed and proportionate. The lettering was clean, with correct spacing, and the “1890” date style was consistent with known originals.

For reference, the official mint weight for an 1890 One Rupee is 11.66 g, so the examined coin’s weight was noticeably lower, though still within a possible range considering wear. The standard diameter for genuine coins is 30.5–30.9 mm, whereas this coin measured 30 mm, which is slightly smaller and represents the most significant concern. However, the thickness was within the typical range of 2.0–2.1 mm, matching expected specifications.




 



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