The Ceylon 5 Cents Coin of 1945 is an interesting piece of numismatic history, representing the time when Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) was still under British colonial rule during the Second World War. The coin was minted just before Sri Lanka's independence in 1948, and it is a valuable collector's item today, offering insights into the country's colonial past.
Key Features:
- Obverse:
The obverse of the 1945 Ceylon 5 cents coin features the left-facing bust of King George VI, who was the British monarch at the time of minting. The inscription around the portrait reads:
"GEORGE VI KING EMPEROR". This was the standard inscription on many coins of the British colonies during this period. The design is relatively simple, focusing on the king's profile. - Reverse:
On the reverse, the coin prominently features the denomination "5 CENTS" in the center, with the year of minting, "1945", directly beneath it. The word "CEYLON" is inscribed at the top of the reverse side, reflecting the country’s name at the time. Surrounding the inscription are a series of ornate floral patterns, which were common in colonial-era coinage designs, adding a touch of local artistry to the coin. - Material:
The 5 cents coin was minted using nickel-bronze, a common alloy for lower denomination coins in the British Empire during this era. Nickel-bronze gives the coin a silvery, metallic appearance that is resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring the coin's durability over time. - Diameter:
The diameter of the 1945 Ceylon 5 cents coin is about 20 mm, making it a relatively small coin, typical for low-value denominations of the time. - Weight:
The coin weighs approximately 3.5 grams, which is consistent with the size and material of the coin.
Historical Context:
The year 1945 marked the final years of World War II and the tail end of British colonial rule in Ceylon. While the country was still governed by the British Crown, the independence movement was gaining momentum, which would eventually lead to Ceylon's full independence in 1948. In fact, the 5 cents coin is one of the last issued before Ceylon transitioned into a self-governing dominion of the British Commonwealth.
Although the coin was minted under British rule, it represents a transitional period, with Ceylon’s post-war economic landscape starting to evolve. The coin's issuance also reflects the broader context of British colonial currencies in the region, where many territories used similar designs and materials.
Collectibility:
The Ceylon 5 Cents Coin of 1945 is a popular coin among collectors of British colonial coins and those interested in Sri Lankan numismatics. As a relatively low-denomination coin, it’s generally more affordable compared to higher-value coins from the same period, but its historical significance, coupled with its mint year during World War II, makes it a desirable piece.
Coins that are in excellent condition or feature unique qualities, such as slight minting errors, may carry higher value for collectors. The 5 cents coin is often collected as part of a larger series that includes other Ceylon coins from the same era.
Legacy:
Today, the Ceylon 5 Cents Coin of 1945 serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s history, representing a time when the island was still under British rule but was on the verge of gaining its independence. The coin is a fascinating artifact that helps to preserve the memory of the British colonial era, making it a valuable item for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Sri Lanka's currency.
For numismatists, the 1945 Ceylon 5 Cents is not only a beautiful piece of craftsmanship but also a symbol of a country on the cusp of great change. Holding one of these coins is like holding a small slice of Sri Lanka’s colonial past—an important connection to a period that shaped the nation’s identity.
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