Reverse In the central part - a hole, framed by four crossed tusks. Above it the numeral: 1. Along the upper edge arc the country name in English: 'EAST AFRICA'. Along the lower edge arc the year of issue: '1955', flanked by diamonds. The coin's edge is decorated with decorative denticles.
Obverse In the central part a hole, framed by arched plant-like ornaments. Above it the Crown of the British Empire. Below it the text in English: ONE CENT. To the right, bottom, and left along the edge the text in Latin: QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND. Along the rim - a toothed relief pattern.