Overview
A bronze colonial-era 10-cent coin featuring a distinctive central hole and the crown of King George V. This piece was part of the East African Shilling system used across Kenya, Tanganyika, and Uganda.
Preliminary identification
British East Africa 10 Cents Coin, George V, 1922
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Issued in 1922, this coin was designed with a central hole so local residents could carry their wealth on strings or wires. It represents a time when the British Empire was standardizing currency across its African territories.
Maker / Origin
While circulating in Africa, this was struck by the Royal Mint in London, an institution with over 1,100 years of history. The 'GEORGIVS V' inscription refers to the King who reigned during the height of the British Empire.
Condition & Value
The coin shows significant circulation wear and some green oxidation (verdigris) on the reverse. This wear is typical for a 'workhorse' coin but does limit its value to the lower end of the collector scale.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.