The King-Emperor Series:

George V & George VI Coin Values (1911–1947)

Exploring the coins of the later British Raj is a journey through the reigns of George V and George VI. This period saw a transition from the classic high-grade silver rupees to the cupro-nickel and nickel-brass issues of the 1940s.

If you have a coin featuring a King-Emperor from this era, here is the current 2026 market guide for India.

George V King Emperor (1911–1936)

Coins from George V’s reign are beloved for their consistent silver content (0.917 purity for rupees) and the intricate details of the King’s crown.

• 1916 One Rupee: A standard but highly collectible silver rupee. A circulated piece is worth ₹1,800 to ₹2,500, while a high-grade UNC (Uncirculated) coin can fetch ₹4,500 to ₹6,000.
• 1917 One Rupee: Similar to 1916, it trades between ₹1,500 and ₹3,500. The Calcutta Mint version (no mint mark) is a favorite for set collectors.
• 1934 & 1935 Silver Coins: * The 1934 1/4 Rupee is a beautiful small silver coin valued at ₹600 to ₹1,000.
  • The 1935 One Rupee is relatively scarce. Depending on condition, it is priced at ₹3,000 to ₹5,500.

️ George VI King Emperor (1937–1947)

George VI’s reign covered the tumultuous years of World War II, which directly impacted the metal composition and mintage of Indian coins.

• The 1939 Rarity: The 1939 One Rupee is one of the most famous rarities in Indian numismatics. Because millions were melted down during the war, a genuine 1939 silver rupee can be worth ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000+.
  • Note: The 1939 1/4 Rupee is more common and valued at ₹600 to ₹1,500.
• 1947 One Rupee: The final year of British Indian coinage. This coin is made of pure Nickel (magnetic), not silver. It is valued at ₹300 to ₹600.
• George 4 vs. George 6 Misconception: You may see searches for a “George 4” coin from 1947. This is a common typo for George VI. King George IV reigned in the early 1800s—if your coin says “1947,” it is definitely George VI!

2026 Price Snapshot: King Emperor Series

Export to Sheets

Fact Check: Is Your Coin Magnetic?

During WWII (1940–1945), silver rupees were debased to “Quaternary Silver” (50% silver). By 1946 and 1947, they switched to pure Nickel.

• Test: If your 1947 one rupee sticks to a magnet, it is genuine! If it’s from 1916 and sticks to a magnet, it might be a contemporary counterfeit or a base-metal replica.

Pro Tip: Always weigh your silver rupees. A genuine George V silver rupee should weigh exactly 11.66 grams.