Straits Settlements 1/2 Cent Bronze Coin, 1932, PCGS MS63RB
basic information
Issuing country: Straits Settlements (British Malaya)
Face value: 1/2 cent
Publication year: 1932
Grade: PCGS MS63RB (Red Brown)
Material: Bronze
Weight: 2.91g
Diameter: 18.5mm
Thickness: 1.4mm
Shape: Rounded square
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History and background of publication
This coin is a 1/2 cent bronze coin issued in 1932 in the British-ruled Straits Settlements.
The Straits Settlements were an important British colony centered around present-day Singapore, Penang, and Malacca, and prospered as a hub for East-West trade. This coin circulated for small-value transactions in the market and served as practical currency that supported people's daily lives.
Approximately 5 million half-cent coins were issued in 1932. The number of half-cent coins issued decreased in later years, and today they are one of the most popular series representing British colonial currency.
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Design Features
The surface features a left-facing portrait of King George V of Great Britain, surrounded by the inscription "GEORGE V KING EMPEROR." The portrait was designed by the renowned sculptor Edgar Bertram Mackennal.
The reverse side is engraved with the country name "STRAITS SETTLEMENTS," "1/2 CENT" in the center, and the year of issue "1932" at the bottom. Its most distinctive feature is its unique shape, a **rounded square**, which makes it a highly popular and distinctive design among modern coins worldwide.
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Specifications, collectible value, and market value
This coin is made of bronze, weighs 2.91g, and is a small coin with a diameter of 18.5mm.
The listed item has been graded **MS63RB (Mint State 63 Red Brown)** by PCGS. RB (Red Brown) indicates a state of preservation where the original mint color with a hint of red coexists with a natural brown color. It is often valued higher than a perfect BN (Brown) and is highly sought after by copper coin collectors.
With its distinctive rounded square design and high-grade condition that maintains its beautiful original color, this coin is an attractive addition to any collection of Straits Settlements or British colonial coins.
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Condition and authenticity check of listed items
The items listed are genuine products that have been authenticated by PCGS.
This is an unused item that has received an MS63RB rating and is in excellent condition, retaining its original reddish-brown sheen. It is sealed in a PCGS holder, guaranteeing its authenticity, so you can collect it with confidence. Please check the images for detailed condition.
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FAQ
Q. What does RB (Red Brown) mean?
A. RB stands for Red Brown, indicating a state of preservation where the original red mint color of the copper coin remains, but has naturally aged to a brown color.
Q. Why is it square-shaped?
A. The half-cent coin of the Straits Settlements features a unique design with rounded corners, a feature rarely seen in modern currency from other countries.
Q. What is the evaluation of the MS63RB?
A. This item is graded Mint State by PCGS, indicating no wear from circulation, excellent stamping, and beautiful original color, making it a collector's item.
