Our Curiosity of the Month for October is the remarkable 2015 East India Company London Guinea and Mohur Gold Proof Set.
This exquisite coin collection, known as “Coins that Built an Empire,” is a testament to the beauty of gold. It is a gateway to understanding the intertwined histories of the East India Company and the British Empire.
The Historical Significance of the Guinea and Mohur
These coins are a window into a time when empires were built on trade, and their stories are an integral part of our shared history.
The first Guinea – minted in the Tower of London in 1663 featuring King Charles II (LBMA.com)
The Guinea: A Token of Trust
Imagine a time when England and its colonies thrived during the “Golden Age” of colonisation. The Guinea coin played a pivotal role as a symbol of trust in the Western world. Minted between 1663 and 1813, these coins marked a significant milestone in English coinage as the first machine-struck coins.
The name “Guinea” pays homage to the Guinea Coast in West Africa, where much of the gold used to create these coins was sourced. Notably, from 1729 to 1739, the East India Company became the primary supplier of this gold, often indicated by the ‘EIC’ mark on the coins.
The Mohur: A Symbol of Eastern Wealth
The Mohur coin represented prosperity in the East. It was originally introduced in 1540 by the Mughal emperor Sher Khan, also known as “The Lion King”. The Mohur became the cornerstone of a currency system that endured for nearly four centuries. When the British arrived in India in the 1600s, they quickly integrated the Mohur into their trade operations, courtesy of the East India Company.
Local rulers granted the company permission to mint its own Mohurs, and by 1677, King Charles II bestowed them with the authority to do so as they pleased. By the 1800s, the company had established key centres in Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras. This solidified the Mohur’s status as the most important currency and it came to symbolise British rule in India.
East India Company London Gold Proof Guinea and Mohur Set
The 2015 Gold Proof Guinea and Mohur Set is a numismatic masterpiece in excellent condition. Comprising a total of 18.97 grams of gold, this collection is a treasure of historical significance and aesthetic beauty. For those interested in the East India Company or the British Empire, this set is nothing short of a collector’s dream.
The coins are beautifully presented within a chest with a lock and key, adding an air of mystique and elegance to the collection. The certificate of authenticity is presented as a scroll nestled within the case.
Both the coins and the case are remarkably well-preserved, with minimal signs of wear and tear. A magnetic base within the case allows the coins to be displayed upright. It’s a perfect addition to any shelf or display cabinet. The set also comes with its own informational booklet, detailing more about the history of these coins and the East India Company.
Browse the '2015 Proof Gold Guinea and Mohur Proof Set' here.
Gold Guinea and Mohur Set – Key Facts
- “Coins that Built an Empire” set from East India Company London
- No. 120 of only 200 ever minted
- Set contains one proof Gold Guinea and one Gold Mohur
- Guinea contains 7.33 grams of gold
- Mohur contains 11.64 grams of gold
- The coins and box are in excellent condition
Limited Edition Gold Guinea and Mohur Set
It’s worth noting that this set is a limited edition, with only 200 ever created. The set available for sale is numbered 120 in this exclusive run, making it a rare and highly sought-after addition to any collector’s portfolio.
The 2015 Gold Proof Guinea and Mohur Set by East India Company London is more than just a collection of coins. With its rich history, impeccable presentation, and limited availability, this set is a must-have for anyone with an appreciation for the British Empire, the East India Company, or the timeless value of gold.
Browse all Limited Edition Coin Sets
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