The Copper Treasures:

Guide to Half Anna & One Quarter Anna Values (2026)

From the early copper strikes of the East India Company to the final issues under George VI, the Anna series represents the heartbeat of daily commerce in British India. In 2026, while many are common, specific high-grade pieces and “key dates” have seen a significant rise in collector interest.

️ The East India Company (EIC) Issues

Before the British Crown took over, the EIC minted massive copper coins designed for endurance.

• Half Anna 1835 (William IV): This large copper coin is a favorite for its “heft.” In 2026, a standard circulated piece sells for ₹500 to ₹1,500. High-grade pieces with original luster are rare and can fetch ₹3,000 to ₹15,000.
• One Quarter Anna 1858: Issued during the transition of power to the Crown, this coin features Victoria.
  • Value: Standard circulated pieces trade for ₹800 to ₹1,500.
  • Note: Watch out for “restrike” versions which have sharper details but different market values.

The Victoria Empress Series (1862–1901)

• One Quarter Anna 1862: The first “Crown” issue. It is very common, but demand for high-grade specimens remains high.
  • Common Grade: ₹100 – ₹300.
  • UNC (Uncirculated): ₹2,000+.
• One Quarter Anna 1887: A standard copper issue of the Empress.
  • Value: In average condition, it sells for ₹300 to ₹500. Rare varieties from the Dhar State (with specific overstrikes) can reach ₹1,500+.

The King George V & VI Era (1911–1947)

These coins saw the shift from pure copper to bronze during the World War eras.

• One Quarter Anna 1919 & 1920: These are quite common. Standard pieces are valued at ₹150 to ₹300. If you have a set of these years in “Fine” condition, the set value is roughly ₹500.
• One Quarter Anna 1936: The final year of George V.
  • India Value: Standard pieces are ₹200 to ₹400.
  • Bangladesh Market: In 2026, due to local collector demand in Bangladesh, these trade for approximately 300 to 600 BDT.
• One Quarter Anna 1939 & 1940: These were the early years of George VI.
  • 1939: Valued at ₹200 to ₹500 (much more common than the rare 1939 silver rupee!).
  • 1940: Similarly valued at ₹250 to ₹450.

Quick Value Reference Table (2026)

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Collector’s Tip: The “Fake” Alert

You may see some online listings for 1936 or 1940 coins priced at “Lakhs of Rupees” (e.g., ₹40 Lakhs). These are significant misinformation and often scams. Genuine market trades for these copper/bronze coins happen within the hundreds or low thousands unless the coin is a proven “Proof” or “Pattern” strike.