Rare Half Rupee 1888 Queen Victoria Empress Bombay Mint British India Silver Coin # A462

Description

An original British India silver Half Rupee of Queen Victoria as Empress of India. The obverse carries the crowned diademed bust of the Queen facing left with the legend "VICTORIA EMPRESS", while the reverse shows "HALF RUPEE / INDIA" and the date within an ornate floral wreath. The piece is honestly circulated, with smooth even wear on the high points of the bust and hair, yet the legends and date remain readable and the flan is sound with attractive old toning.

• Denomination: Half Rupee, British India
• Year: 1888, as read on the reverse below "INDIA"
• Mint: Bombay (no mint mark below the date)
• Metal: silver, 0.917 fine, standard weight about 5.83 g
• Diameter: approximately 19 to 20 mm for this type
• Condition: Fine, evenly circulated with clear legends

The images show the actual coin the buyer will receive.

Step back into the height of the British Raj with this authentic 1888 Queen Victoria Empress Half Rupee, struck in fine silver at the historic Bombay Mint. Featuring the classic crowned and diademed portrait of Queen Victoria on the obverse and a delicate floral wreath enclosing the denomination on the reverse, this piece tells a tangible story of 19th-century trade and empire. Graded in Fine condition, it displays the honest, smooth wear of a coin that actively circulated through bustling bazaars and colonial markets, yet retains full readability of its legends and date. Numismatists prize these Victorian silver issues for their historical depth, intrinsic precious metal content, and the timeless appeal of British India coinage. While uncertified, the coin you see is the exact piece you will receive, showcasing a charming, natural old-silver toning that enhances its vintage character. It is an essential acquisition for any serious collector of imperial world coins or South Asian numismatic history.