Capture the classic lion-before-Kilimanjaro design with this East Africa 1 Shilling (1949) from the reign of George VI. Struck in durable cupro-nickel with a crisp reeded edge, it features the crowned left-facing portrait of the King and the beloved wildlife scene used across the post-war series. A perfect addition for British-Empire, African, and animal-theme collectors. Formerly circulating legal tender, now a historic pre-independence collectible—exclusively curated by Treasure Trades.

Act now—clean, problem-free 1949 lion shillings get snapped up fast. Add this historic East African type to your collection today

Why This Is a Smart Buy

• Historic appeal: A hallmark colonial-era coin of Kenya–Uganda–Tanganyika under George VI, showcasing one of world coinage’s most recognizable wildlife designs.

• Collector demand: Sought by British Commonwealth, African, wildlife, and type-set collectors—broad, steady market interest.

• Mintage context: 1949 was a regular, multi-million mintage date (not low-mintage). That keeps it affordable, while Choice AU/UNC examples or sharply struck pieces are more elusive and bring premiums.

• Display value: The bold lion and Kilimanjaro motif presents beautifully in albums, capsules, or slabs—great crossover appeal for gift buyers and educators.

• Long-term outlook: With growing interest in African history and animal-theme numismatics, attractive examples remain liquid and have solid potential for gradual appreciation, especially in higher grades.

• Krause & Mishler, Standard Catalog of World Coins 1901–2000 — catalog entry for East Africa 1 Shilling (George VI, post-war Cu-Ni type), specifications and type details. Publisher site: https://www.krausebooks.com/

• Numista — East Africa 1 Shilling (George VI) — widely used collector reference with specs, photos, and date listings (1948–1952 series). https://en.numista.com/catalogue/afrique-orientale-1.html

• Wikipedia — East African shilling — historical context of the currency used in Kenya, Uganda, Tanganyika (and Zanzibar) and its relation to British coinage. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_African_shilling

Notes: The 1949 date is generally cataloged as a common, high-mintage year for this Cu-Ni type; exact mintage totals vary by reference. For premium pricing, emphasize eye appeal and grade (problem-free AU/UNC).