Anna Series
The Indian struggle for independence is well known throughout history. However, not many of have an idea of the impact independence has had on Indian coinage.
Pre-independence coinage included quaternary silver coins which were issued between 1940 and 1947 CE. In 1947 CE, the quaternary silver coins were replaced by those made of pure nickel. These coins bore the portrait of George VI on the obverse and the denomination along with the year of issue on the other.
Although India achieved independence in 1947 CE, the series issued before independence continued to remain in circulation until 1950 CE. On August 15, 1950 CE, the Anna series coinage was adopted. The Anna series became the country’s first coinage.
The king’s portrait on the obverse was replaced by the Lion Capital of the Ashoka Pillar. The design on the reverse varied according to the denomination.
One, half, and Quarter Rupee coins saw the Tiger on the reverse being replaced by a corn sheaf. On the half, One, and Two Anna coins, the Tiger was replaced by a Humped Bull. A galloping Horse featured on the reverse of the One Pice coins.
The coinage of Republic India adopted and incorporated Indian motifs and symbols which represent the country’s indigenous characteristics and sovereignty.
Pre-independence coinage included quaternary silver coins which were issued between 1940 and 1947 CE. In 1947 CE, the quaternary silver coins were replaced by those made of pure nickel. These coins bore the portrait of George VI on the obverse and the denomination along with the year of issue on the other.
Although India achieved independence in 1947 CE, the series issued before independence continued to remain in circulation until 1950 CE. On August 15, 1950 CE, the Anna series coinage was adopted. The Anna series became the country’s first coinage.
The king’s portrait on the obverse was replaced by the Lion Capital of the Ashoka Pillar. The design on the reverse varied according to the denomination.
One, half, and Quarter Rupee coins saw the Tiger on the reverse being replaced by a corn sheaf. On the half, One, and Two Anna coins, the Tiger was replaced by a Humped Bull. A galloping Horse featured on the reverse of the One Pice coins.
The coinage of Republic India adopted and incorporated Indian motifs and symbols which represent the country’s indigenous characteristics and sovereignty.