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This attractive pre-WWII British colonial issue retains strong overall detail with pleasing golden-brown coloration and darker toning around the lettering and protected areas. The palm tree, date, denomination, portrait, crown, and surrounding inscriptions remain clearly defined.
Key Item Specifics
- Certification: Uncertified
- Composition: Nickel-Brass
- Denomination: 1 Shilling
- Year: 1938
- Country/Region: British West Africa
- Monarch: George VI
- Grade: Approximately VF-25 to VF-30
- Strike Type: Business Strike
- Era: British Colonial / Pre-WWII
Why This Coin Stands Out
The British West African shilling is a distinctive piece of colonial coinage that circulated in several British-administered territories in West Africa.
This 1938 example features the classic palm tree reverse paired with the crowned portrait of George VI. Strong remaining design detail and attractive aged coloration make it an appealing addition to a British Empire, African, colonial, or world coin collection.
Coin Design
Obverse: Crowned left-facing portrait of King George VI surrounded by the royal inscription.
Reverse: Palm tree dividing the 1938 date, surrounded by “BRITISH WEST AFRICA” with “ONE SHILLING” below.
Condition
In my opinion, this coin falls in the Approximately VF-25 to VF-30 range. Moderate circulation wear is present on the highest points of the portrait, while the crown retains strong detail. The reverse displays well-defined palm fronds, a clear date, strong lettering, and well-preserved peripheral detail.
The coin displays natural-looking golden-brown coloration and darker toning consistent with age and circulation. Surface marks and wear are present as expected on a circulated coin of this age.
The coin has not been professionally graded or cleaned by me. Please review all photographs carefully, as they show the exact coin offered and are an important part of the condition description.
Shipping
Coin will be securely packaged in a protective holder for shipment. Combined shipping is available when purchasing multiple items.
