Straits Settlements Silver Coin Value 

Straits Settlements flag

Silver coins were in regular circulation in Straits Settlements. The values below represent the intrinsic value of silver coins from Straits Settlements.

Straits Settlements silver coins that are in uncirculated condition, or that may be rare and collectible may also have numismatic value. You can use this table as a guide when buying and selling circulated silver coins from Straits Settlements.

The melt values are calculated and displayed in USD based on the today's silver spot price of $32.31 per troy ounce.

 
 
Denomination / Currency Years Minted Fineness Gross Weight (g) ASW (g) ASW (oz t) Melt Value
5 Cents 1871- 1903 .800 1.36 1.09 .035 $1.13
5 Cents 1910- 1935 .600 1.36 0.82 .0262 $0.85
5 Cents 1918- 1920 .400 1.36 0.54 .0175 $0.57
10 Cents 1871- 1903 .800 2.71 2.17 .0697 $2.25
10 Cents 1909- 1927 .600 2.71 1.63 .0523 $1.69
10 Cents 1918- 1920 .400 2.71 1.08 .0349 $1.13
20 Cents 1871- 1903 .800 5.43 4.34 .1397 $4.51
20 Cents 1910- 1935 .600 5.43 3.26 .1047 $3.38
20 Cents 1919 .400 5.43 2.17 .0698 $2.26
50 Cents 1886- 1905 .800 13.58 10.86 .3493 $11.29
50 Cents 1907- 1908 .900 10.1 9.09 .2923 $9.44
50 Cents 1920- 1921 .500 8.42 4.21 .1354 $4.37
1 Dollar 1903- 1904 .900 26.95 24.26 .7798 $25.20
1 Dollar 1907- 1909 .900 20.21 18.19 .5848 $18.89
1 Dollar 1919- 1926 .500 16.85 8.43 .2709 $8.75

Straits Settlements Silver Coins

The Straits Settlements was a group of British territories located in Southeast Asia, established in the early 19th century. The history of silver coins in the Straits Settlements is a fascinating journey that reflects the region's colonial past and economic development.

Early Period (1826 - 1867)

The Straits Settlements were formally established in 1826 as part of the British East India Company’s territories. Initially, the currency in use included a mix of Spanish dollars, Indian rupees, and other foreign coins. The need for a stable and uniform currency led to the introduction of the first Straits Settlements coins in 1845, which included silver coins in denominations of 1/4, 1/2, and 1 dollar.

British Crown Colony (1867 - 1946)

In 1867, the Straits Settlements became a British Crown Colony, separating from the administration of British India. This change brought about a more regulated and consistent currency system. The new silver coins introduced during this period featured denominations of 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1 dollar coins. These coins typically bore the effigy of the reigning British monarch on the obverse and various designs on the reverse, symbolizing the colony.

Notable Silver Coins

  • 10 Cents: Introduced in 1867, featuring Queen Victoria.
  • 20 Cents: Also introduced in 1867, with similar designs to the 10 cents coin.
  • 50 Cents: Introduced in 1886, larger and more valuable, featuring intricate designs.
  • 1 Dollar: Introduced in 1903, often featuring the image of King Edward VII or later monarchs.

Post-War Period and the End of the Straits Settlements (1946 onwards)

After World War II, the Straits Settlements were dissolved in 1946. Singapore became a separate Crown Colony, while Penang and Malacca joined the Malayan Union, and later the Federation of Malaya. The use of Straits Settlements coins gradually phased out, with new currencies being introduced in these regions. However, the silver coins of the Straits Settlements remain a significant part of numismatic history and are highly prized by collectors today.

In conclusion, the silver coins of the Straits Settlements not only served as a medium of exchange but also as a reflection of the region's colonial history and economic development. They provide a tangible link to the past and are a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Southeast Asia.

Use this guide to determine the melt value of Straits Settlements silver coins.