Rare Mughal Empire Silver Rupee – Emperor Muhammad Shah – Authentic 18th Century Indian Coin

This silver rupee is a quintessential example of late Mughal numismatics. The obverse features the standard poetic couplet for Muhammad Shah: “Sikka Mubarak Sahib Qiran Sani Muhammad Shah Badshah Ghazi” (The auspicious coin of the second Lord of the Conjunction, Emperor Muhammad Shah, the Warrior against Infidels).

The reverse contains the “Julus” formula, which marks the year of the Emperor’s reign: “Manus Maimanat Manus Sanah Julus” (Struck in the year of the auspicious accession). The calligraphy is executed in the Nasta’liq style, which was the standard for the period. The coin exhibits the typical “thick flan” characteristic of the era, where the die is larger than the coin itself, causing some of the peripheral legend to remain off-flan.

Condition Note

• Grade: Very Fine (VF).

• Details: The coin shows honest wear but retains very sharp central details. The calligraphy is deep and well-defined, with a pleasant light patina. There are no significant test marks (shroff marks) visible on the faces, which adds to its eye appeal.

Identification

• Name: Rupee (Silver)

• Ruler: Muhammad Shah (often referred to as “Muhammad Shah Rangila”)

• Mint: Likely Shahjahanabad (Delhi) or Surat (The “Dar-ul-Khilafat” or “Seat of the Caliphate” title is partially visible).

• Date/Regnal Year: AH 11xx (The full Hijri date is partially off-flan, but the Regnal Year “RY” is visible near the top of the reverse).

• Metal Composition: Silver (typically .960–.980 fineness).