Straits Settlements 1/4 Cent Bronze Coin 1916 Straits Settlements 1/4 Cent NGC MS63 RB
basic information
Issuing country: Straits Settlements (British Malaya)
Face value: 1/4 cent (Quarter cent)
Year of publication: 1916
Grade: NGC MS63 RB (Mint State 63 Red Brown)
Material: Bronze
Weight: 2.33g
Diameter: 18mm
Thickness: 1.0mm
Edge: Reeded
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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. The quarter cent was the smallest denomination subsidiary coin used for everyday small transactions and was an essential part of daily life for citizens at the time.
The mintage of the 1916 coin is estimated at around 4 million, meaning its circulation was relatively limited. Because it was issued during World War I, few examples remain in good condition, and high-grade examples are highly valued by collectors.
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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 AND EMPEROR OF INDIA." The portrait was designed by the renowned British sculptor Edgar Bertram Mackennal.
The reverse side features the country name "STRAITS SETTLEMENTS," the face value "1/4" in the center, and the words "QUARTER CENT 1916" at the bottom, resulting in a simple yet well-balanced design typical of British colonial currency.
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Specifications, collectible value, and market value
This coin is made of bronze, weighs 2.33g, and is a small coin with a diameter of 18mm.
The listed item has been graded **MS63 RB (Mint State 63 Red Brown)** by NGC. RB (Red Brown) indicates that the original red mint color of the copper coin remains partially intact while it has naturally aged to a brownish color, meaning the original surface has been preserved.
The 1916 issue had a relatively small mintage of approximately 4 million coins, and the number of uncirculated coins in circulation is also limited. Therefore, a coin like this one, certified MS63 RB, is a highly desirable piece for any collection of Straits Settlements or British colonial coins.
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Check the condition and authenticity of the listed items.
The items listed are genuine, certified products that have been authenticated by NGC.
This unused item has received an MS63 RB rating and is in excellent condition, retaining its beautiful details and original reddish-brown color with no wear. It is sealed in an NGC holder, guaranteeing its authenticity, making it a safe addition to any collection. Please see the images for detailed condition information.
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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 partially intact while it has naturally aged to a brownish color. This color designation is often more highly valued than BN (Brown).
Q. What was the 1/4 cent used for?
A. As the smallest denomination subsidiary currency in the Straits Settlements at the time, it was widely used for small everyday payments.
Q. What kind of trim level is the MS63 RB?
A. This item has been graded as Mint State by the NGC, meaning it is in collectible quality with no wear from circulation, retaining its beautiful stamping and original reddish-brown color.
