Summary

5 Cents, Issued by Malaya, Malaysia, 1941
Minted by Royal Mint, London

Obverse Description

Crowned head of the King facing left; around, GEORGE VI KING AND EMPEROR OF INDIA; artist's initials, PM, below neck

Reverse Description

At centre within a bead circle, 5 / CENTS; around, COMMISSIONERS OF CURRENCY MALAYA 1941

Edge Description

Milled

Significance

In the early 1930's the Federated Malay States sought a share in the profits accruing to Britain from the issue of paper money and coins in the Straits Settlements. This request saw a commission established which reported in 1934 that the states formed a single economic unit which employed the notes and coins of the Straits Settlements. The report recommended that a Commission for Currency for Malaya should be established to manage the production and issue of currency in the region on behalf of, and guaranteed by, the various Malayan Governments. Initially, from 1939, all coins were produced by the Royal Mint, London although the outbreak of War saw production transferred to India in 1941. 5 Cents denomination coins were struck in both London and Calcutta in 1941, this example is from the Royal Mint, London.

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