George VI, Half Silver, Rupee, 1945, Lahore Mint, D/II, 'L' raised, Security edge, Thick 'L'. GK 1288.NGC Slabbed AU 58. Scarce.

George VI Silver Rupee (Half Rupee) 1945, Lahore Mint (D/II, “L” raised, thick ‘L’, security edge) (GK 1288) is a British India circulation coin struck in silver during the final years of colonial rule, when the rupee system was still the backbone of everyday commerce across the subcontinent. The obverse carries the “Head Type II” portrait of King George VI with standard imperial inscriptions, while the reverse features the denomination within the familiar wreath design along with the date and Lahore Mint attribution, distinguished here by the D/II classification and the notable raised, thick “L” mint/variety characteristic.

This issue also incorporates a security edge, introduced to reduce clipping and enhance integrity in circulation during wartime and immediate post-war monetary conditions. The 1945 Lahore Mint series is well known for subtle variety differences, including lettering styles and die characteristics such as the “L” raised variety referenced here.

The example graded NGC AU58 is an About Uncirculated coin showing only slight wear on the highest points while retaining strong mint luster, placing it just below Mint State condition. Its “Scarce” designation reflects its moderate availability overall, with better-preserved and clearly attributable varieties being increasingly sought after by advanced collectors of late George VI silver rupee issues.