Obverse. Photo © Numista
  • 1/2 Rupee 1955-1968, KM# 28, Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck
  • 1/2 Rupee 1955-1968, KM# 28, Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck
Description

In 1928 the second Druk Gyalpo asked the Calcutta Mint to strike some silver half rupees and some copper pice for use in Bhutan. The coins were designed by Mr. A. P. Spencer, the Chief engraver of the Calcutta Mint, from a rough design supplied from Bhutan. Some 20 000 half rupees were supplied in 1929 but it was noticed that there was a small mistake in the legend and this was corrected when a further 30 000 pieces were sent in the following year.

In 1955 and again in 1967-1968 half rupees were supplied by the Calcutta Mint to Bhutan. They were made of nickel or cupro-nickel and using the same dies. Initially the unchanged date (Earth-dragon year, 1928) was used but was later replaced by a new year (Iron-tiger year, 1950). In both cases, however, the incorrect obverse die was used with the error in the legend but the error was never corrected again.

Obverse

Crowned bust left, legend around.

Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1929–1972) was the Third Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan from 1952 to 1972.

The Druk Gyalpo (lit. "Dragon King" or the King of Bhutan) is the head of state of the Kingdom of Bhutan. In the Dzongkha language, Bhutan is known as Drukyul which translates as "The Land of Dragons". Thus, while Kings of Bhutan are known as Druk Gyalpo ("Dragon King"), the Bhutanese people call themselves the Drukpa, meaning "Dragon people".

Translation: 2nd King of the Dragon Contry Jigme Wangchuk

Reverse

Coin divided Into 9 Sections. Auspicious symbols in 8 segments surround Bhutanese legend in the center.

Symbols (from top left going clockwise):
1) Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra)
2) Umbrella of sovereignty
3) Golden fish of good fortune
4) Conch shell
5) Lotus
6) Treasure vase
7) Endless knot (Emblem of endless birth)
8) Victory banner

Translation (center square): Iron Tiger year (1950), half Indian rupee

Edge
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Characteristics
Material Nickel
Weight 5.085 g
Diameter 24 mm
Thickness 1.8 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # KM# 28.1, KM# 28.2
Mint
Calcutta Mint (no mintmark)

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