Carolyn H. writes: Help me identify this coin please! I got it in change as a dime. I have searched many sites but have not found anything about it. It is the same size and color as a U.S. dime. One side has a large 10 in the center. It says “STRAITS SETTLEMENTS” on the top and “TEN CENTS 1926” on the bottom. The other side has a picture of George V in the center and around the edge is inscribed “GEORGE V KING AND EMPORER OF INDIA”. I haven’t been able to find any info about it. Thank you very much, Carolyn.
Straits Settlements was a former British colony on the Asian Malay Peninsula. In 1826 the colony consisted of the territories of Singapore, Penang and Malacca. It was under the control of the East India Company until 1853 and was part of British India until 1867, when it became a British Crown Colony. Straits Settlements changed its name to Malaya in 1939.
About 20 million 1926 .600 fine silver 10 cent pieces (100 cents= 1 dollar) were issued in Straits Settlements. The coins shows the bust of King George V of England and a large “10” on the reverse. Market value depends on grade (condition). Approximate value range: less than US$1 to about $10 (uncirculated).