Obverse:
The obverse features a crowned denomination “ONE SHILLING”, with the crown symbolizing British imperial authority. The surrounding legend reads “EAST AFRICA”, clearly identifying the regional scope of circulation rather than a single country.

Reverse:
The reverse displays the denomination “1 SHILLING” and the date 1948, arranged around a central circular hole. The holed design was practical for local commerce, allowing coins to be strung together and reducing metal usage in large-scale circulation.

Specifications:

• Composition: Copper-nickel

• Weight: approx. 5.66 g

• Diameter: approx. 23.5 mm

• Shape: Round with central hole

• Edge: Plain

• Alignment: Medal (0°)

Historical Insight:
Issued shortly after World War II, this coin belongs to the final phase of British colonial administration in East Africa. Within two decades, all regions using this currency would gain independence and introduce their own national monetary systems. As such, EACB coinage represents a pre-national monetary identity shared by several future countries.

Collecting Note:
The 1948 East Africa 1 Shilling is especially attractive to collectors due to its multi-country circulation, colonial history, and distinctive holed form. It is a strong example of imperial-era African coinage and fits well within collections focused on colonial systems, Africa, or unusual coin designs.