King George V ruled Britain, and thus India, from the death of his father Edward VII in 1910 until 1936. The history of India during this time is particularly interesting, as there was not only the first World War to contend with, but the growing evolution of modern India itself, as the subcontinent inched ever closer to its eventual 1947 independence.
Denominations
Denominations of coins, both for general circulation and special issues, minted during King George V’s time as emperor of India include the following:
1/12 anna
1/2 pice
1/4 anna
1 anna
2 annas
4 annas
8 annas
1/4 rupee
1/2 rupee
1 rupee
15 rupees (a gold issue from 1918)
1 sovereign (a gold issue from 1918)
Additionally, patterns exist for George V Indian coins, as do some proof sets.
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George V was in failing health during the last part of his life, and finally died in 1936. His son Edward VIII became king upon his death, although he would abdicate the throne in less than a year.
George V’s silver rupee coins are of particular interest among coin collectors today, as are the rare gold pieces from 1918. Colonial coin collectors, as well as those with an interest in India and/or Britain, will enjoy finding nice items from this long and arresting era of subcontinental history.
