India › Indian princely states › Indore, ¼ Anna (1886-1888) - Shivaji Rao Rare Coin

Description

Issuer	Princely state of Indore
Type	Standard circulation coins
Years	1943-1945 (1886-1888)
Calendar	Vikram Samvat
Value	¼ Anna (1⁄64)
Currency	Rupee (1760-1935)
Composition	Copper
Weight	6.026 g
Diameter	25 mm
Thickness	1.7 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Cast
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	Yes

This exceptional ¼ Anna copper coin represents a rare piece of Indian numismatic history from the Princely State of Indore during the reign of Shivaji Rao (1886-1888). Struck in pure copper using traditional cast techniques, this circulation coin carries significant historical weight as it predates modern India's unified currency system. The coin weighs 6.026 grams with a 25mm diameter, featuring medal alignment that reflects the craftsmanship of late 19th-century Indian minting practices. The ¼ Anna denomination, representing 1/64th of a Rupee, showcases the complex monetary system that existed during the British Raj period when princely states maintained semi-autonomous coinage rights. Demonetized decades ago, this coin has transformed into a highly coveted collectible among numismatists and history enthusiasts. Its value lies not merely in precious metal content but in its rarity, historical provenance, and connection to India's princely state era—a fascinating period before independence. Collectors prize such pieces for their authentic documentation of regional sovereignty and pre-colonial Indian commerce. This coin serves as both an investment-grade artifact and a tangible window into a fascinating chapter of South Asian history.