Ceylon – 1815 2 Stivers – George III (KM#82)

The 1815 Ceylon 2 Stivers coin was issued under the authority of George III during the early period of British rule in Ceylon (modern Sri Lanka). The year 1815 is particularly significant, marking the Kandyan Convention, through which the British formally took control of the entire island.

The obverse features a right-facing portrait of King George III, with the Latin legend identifying him as monarch of Great Britain. His long reign (17601820) spanned major global events, including the expansion of the British Empire and the consolidation of colonial territories such as Ceylon.

The reverse displays the denomination "2 STIVERS" within a simple yet bold design, typically enclosed by a wreath or ornamental border, along with the date 1815. The use of the stiver denomination reflects the Dutch monetary influence that remained in circulation even after the British took control from the Dutch East India Company in the late 18th century.

These copper coins were struck for everyday use within the colony and circulated widely among local populations during a transitional period in Ceylon's monetary and political history. As such, they represent an interesting blend of Dutch-derived currency systems under British authority.

Today, the 1815 2 Stivers coin is valued by collectors for its historical significance, linking it to the transfer of power in Ceylon and the broader expansion of the British Empire in Asia.

Coin Specifications

• Country: Ceylon (British Colonial)

• Ruler: George III

• Year: 1815

• Denomination: 2 Stivers

• Catalogue: KM#82

• Composition: Copper

• Weight: approx. 810 g (varies by issue)

• Diameter: approx. 2729 mm

(MB 27)