Victoria Queen One Rupee

Country of Origin: British India

Year of Issue: 1862

Denomination: One Rupee

Composition: Silver (.917 fineness)

Victoria Queen One Rupee

Brief Description

A silver Rupee of British India featuring the crowned bust of Queen Victoria on the obverse and an ornate floral wreath on the reverse.

Historical Significance

The 1862 Rupee is an iconic issue of British India, representing the transition of power from the East India Company to the British Crown following the Indian Rebellion of 1857. This specific date was used for many years regardless of the actual year of production.

Estimated Value

$15 - $30 in Fine/VF condition, $60 - $150+ in Choice Mint State.

Care Instructions

Handle by the edges only to avoid skin oils. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules. Do not clean or polish, as this drastically reduces numismatic value.

Mint Mark

Likely Calcutta or Bombay; specific mints are determined by 'dot' patterns below the date (none clearly visible here).

Mintage & Rarity

Common; tens of millions were minted across several years using the 1862 date.

Weight & Diameter

11.66 grams, 30.7 mm

Edge

Reeded

Apparent Grade

Fine/Very Fine. The details in the crown and the robe show significant wear, and the fields have many small contact marks.

Obverse (Front)

Crowned bust of Queen Victoria facing left, wearing an ornate robe. Surrounded by the legend 'VICTORIA QUEEN'.

Reverse (Back)

The words 'ONE RUPEE INDIA 1862' centered within a complex, continuous floral wreath design.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition is the primary driver. Additionally, 'dot' varieties (small raised dots below the date) can signify different mintage years and add premium value to specialists.

Similar Coins

The 1862 Half Rupee and 1/4 Rupee share the same design but are smaller in diameter.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check for weight (11.66g) and diameter. Counterteits often have 'soft' or mushy details in the floral wreath and an incorrect metallic ring when tapped gently.

Notable Varieties & Errors

Dotted varieties (0 to 12 dots below the date) and different numbers of panels in the Queen's robe are highly sought after by collectors.

Created At: 2026-04-28T18:42:36.271996