Queen Victoria British India 1862 Calcutta Mint 1 Rupee

The 1862 One Rupee of Queen Victoria, struck at the Calcutta Mint, is one of the first silver rupees issued under direct British Crown administration in India following the end of East India Company rule. The obverse features the youthful crowned portrait of Queen Victoria with the legend “VICTORIA QUEEN,” while the reverse displays “ONE RUPEE INDIA 1862” within an ornate floral wreath. Minted in .917 fine silver, the coin has a standard weight of 11.66 grams, a diameter of approximately 30.5 mm, and a reeded edge. Calcutta Mint issues of 1862 are distinguished by various die varieties, including differences in the presence or absence of mint marks and ornamental details. As the inaugural Crown-issued rupee series, the 1862 Calcutta Mint rupee remains a cornerstone of British Indian numismatics and a highly desirable piece for collectors of Indian silver coinage.