British Raj

1911 King George V "Pig Rupee" - Rare British India

India • 1911 • 1 Rupee • Catalog: KM# 523

Quick Numismatic Identification & Valuation

The 1911 King George V "Pig Rupee" - Rare British India is a historic silver (.917) coin issued in 1911 during the British Raj era under King George V. Authentic specimens typically weigh 11.66g with a diameter of 30.60mm.

Mint: Calcutta & Bombay Metal: Silver (.917) Rarity: Very Rare / Key Date Mintage: 9,400,000 (Mostly Melted)

Estimated Numismatic Valuation

₹ 5,000 – ₹ 45,000

Estimated collector price range for authentic, problem-free specimens. Premium uncirculated grades (MS-63+) and documented mint state command higher auction prices.

Numismatic Specifications

Country / Entity	India
Year of Issue	1911
Denomination	1 Rupee
Mint & Location	Calcutta & Bombay (Kolkata, India)
Ruler / Authority	King George V
Metal / Composition	Silver (.917)
Weight	11.66 g
Diameter	30.60 mm
Thickness	1.90 mm
Shape & Edge	Round, Reeded
Mintage	9,400,000 (Mostly Melted)
Rarity Status	Very Rare / Key Date

Historical Background & Collector Significance

Issued to celebrate the coronation of King George V in 1911, the small elephant on the collar of the King's robe had short tusks and trunk, leading the public to believe it resembled a pig. Due to religious sensitivities in India, the design caused an uproar and the government hastily withdrew and melted the vast majority of the issue.

Obverse (Front) Design

Crowned bust of King George V wearing the robe of the Order of the Star of India.

Reverse (Back) Design

Value in English and Urdu within an ornate floral border.

Collector & Authenticity Notes

One of the most famous key dates of British Indian numismatics. Authentic examples in VF or better are prized trophies. Beware of altered 1912-1920 coins that have been tooled.