Note: An exceptionally Rare and historically significant Original Pattern Proof Rupee from the early coinage experiments of Edward VII.

This Rupee was made using dies prepared by F.K. Wezel at the Calcutta Mint shortly after the death of Queen Victoria. Wezel created two different pattern designs for a new rupee, but the reverse side featured an imperial crown design that did not match the version officially approved in the ‘Secretary of State’s Military Dispatch No. 70, dated 21st June 1901’.

The India Office submitted these pattern coins to the Royal Mint for inspection on 18^th November 1901. However, the design was Ultimately Rejected by the Royal Mint, which found it lacking in distinctive character and criticized its poor engraving quality.

This example clearly contradicts that judgment. The engraving is sharp, the motifs are crisply defined, and the coin has acquired a stunning natural patina of caramel and azure, adding to its visual charm. Edward VII’s portrait exhibits striking expression and depth, while the reverse is graced with a silky luster and refined detail, further enhanced by a subtle gray tone that softly contrasts with the bright strike. This muted elegance adds to the artistic appeal and reinforces the significance of this pattern as a prototype that never saw official adoption.

Labeled ‘P Rupee’ by PCGS to denote its Pattern status, this is one of the most elusive Edwardian patterns known.

No higher-graded specimen is recorded on the PCGS census.

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