½ Farthing - William IV 1837 front ½ Farthing - William IV 1837 back
½ Farthing - William IV 1837 photo
© Heritage Auctions

½ Farthing - William IV

1837 year
Copper 2.36 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Sri Lanka › Ceylon (1597-1972)
King
William IV (1830-1837)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1837
Value
½ Farthing (1⁄1920)
Currency
Pound (1828-1869)
Composition
Copper
Weight
2.36 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
31 December 1869
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#24357
Rarity index
71%

Reverse

Seated figure of Britannia facing right, holding a shield and trident, legend around, national flower emblems in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering: BRITANNIAR: REX: FID: DEF:

Unabridged legend: Britanniarum Rex Fidei Defensor

Translation: King of the Britains Defender of the Faith

Edge

Plain

Comment

Struck for use in Ceylon, the standard weight of these pieces was 1/12 ounce avoirdupois (36.5 grains).

Interesting fact

The ½ Farthing coin from Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon, is a rare and unique coin that was issued during the reign of King William IV in 1837. It is made of copper and weighs 2.36 grams. One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of British and Sri Lankan elements. The obverse side of the coin bears the image of King William IV, while the reverse side features a depiction of a Sri Lankan lion and the year of issue in both English and Sinhala scripts. This coin is a fascinating example of the cultural exchange and blending that occurred between Sri Lanka and Britain during the colonial era.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
1837  1935300 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for ½ Farthing - William IV 1837 coin.