Straits Settlements 1/4 cent bronze coin, 1916, NGC MS63 RB


 basic information


 Issuing country: Straits Settlements (British Malaya)
 Face value: 1/4 cent (Quarter Cent)
 Year of publication: 1916
 Appraisal institution: NGC (Numismatic Guarantee Company)
 Grade: MS63 RB (Mint State 63 Red Brown)
 NGC Certification Number: 8202907-088
 Material: Bronze
 Weight: 2.33g
 Diameter: 18mm
 Thickness: 1.0mm
 Edge: Reeded


 ⸻


 History and background of publication


 This coin is a quarter-cent bronze coin issued in 1916 in the British-ruled Straits Settlements.


 The Straits Settlements, centered around Singapore, Penang, and Malacca, were important British colonies that developed as a hub for Southeast Asian trade. This currency, as the smallest denomination coin at the time, was widely used for small purchases and commercial transactions in daily life.


 1916 was during World War I, and this coin is known as a historically significant year of issue, being produced under wartime conditions. Only about 4 million were issued, and few uncirculated examples remain. High-grade examples are highly sought after by collectors of British colonial coins.


 ⸻


 Design Features


 Obverse


 This is a portrait of King George V of Great Britain, facing left.


 In the surrounding area


 "GEORGE V KING AND EMPEROR OF INDIA"


 The inscription is engraved on it.


 The portrait was designed by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal, a renowned sculptor for the British Royal Family.


 Reverse side


 Face value in the center


 "1/4"


 Around it


 "STRAITS SETTLEMENTS"


 At the bottom


 "QUARTER CENT 1916"


 It features a simple and elegant design, typical of British colonial currency, with the character engraved on it.


 ⸻


 Collection value and market valuation


 This coin is made of bronze, weighs 2.33g, and is a small coin with a diameter of 18mm.


 The item listed is an unused product that has received an MS63 RB rating from NGC.


 **RB (Red Brown)** is a color designation that indicates a state where the original red mint color of the copper coin has been naturally transformed into a beautiful reddish-brown while still retaining some of the original color. It is often valued higher than a completely brown (BN) coin.


 The 1916 issue had a relatively small mintage of approximately 4 million coins, and a coin preserved in MS63 (uncirculated condition) despite being a copper coin over 100 years old is extremely rare, making it a recommended piece for collectors of British colonial or Southeast Asian currency.


 ⸻


 Regarding the condition and authenticity of the listed items


 This coin has been authenticated by **NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)**.


 * Grade: MS63 RB
 * Authentication number: 8202907-088


 This item is in mint condition, retaining its crisp, detailed design and original reddish-brown color. It comes sealed in an NGC holder, ensuring both authenticity and long-term preservation, making it a safe addition to any collection.


 ⸻


 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


 Q. What does RB (Red Brown) mean?
 A. RB stands for "Red Brown," indicating that some of the original red mint color of the copper coin remains, while it has naturally changed to a reddish-brown color. It may be valued higher than BN (Brown).


 Q. Is a quarter cent from 1916 rare?
 A. Approximately 4 million copies were issued, but few remain in unused (MS) grade, and NGC/PCGS certified copies in particular are highly sought after by collectors.


 Q. What kind of evaluation is MS63?
 A. MS63 is a mint state grade, meaning it shows no wear from circulation, has a good shine and stamping, and exhibits only minor contact marks, making it a collector-quality item.