British-India ½ Rupee 1835 – William IV Rare Silver Coin #V-105

Location	India – British (British India)
Issuing company	East India Company
King	William IV (1830-1837)
Type	Standard circulation coins
Year	1835
Value	½ Rupee
Currency	Rupee (1770-1947)
Composition	Silver (.917)
Weight	5.83 g
Diameter	24.5 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	Yes

This British-India ½ Rupee dates back to 1835, struck under the authority of the East India Company during the reign of King William IV (1830-1837). It is a standard circulation coin crafted from high-purity silver (.917 fineness), weighing 5.83 grams with a diameter of 24.5 mm. The obverse features a finely detailed bust of King William IV facing right, with the lettering “WILLIAM IIII, KING” encircling the portrait—a hallmark of coinage from this transitional colonial era.

Minted during a pivotal period when the East India Company administered vast Indian territories under royal charter, this coin reflects the monetary reforms introduced to standardize currency across British India. Its milled technique and medal alignment (↑↑) showcase the era’s advancing minting technology.

Now officially demonetized, this piece has transitioned from everyday currency to a sought-after numismatic artifact. Collectors of colonial-era coins, British Empire memorabilia, and Indian numismatics will find this piece particularly appealing due to its historical significance, silver content, and the scarcity of well-preserved examples from this period. A wonderful addition to any serious collection or a distinctive gift for history enthusiasts.