Mughal Silver Rupee – Muhammad Shah – RY 26 – Authentic 18th Century Indian Coin

This silver rupee represents the mid-18th-century numismatic artistry of the Mughal Empire. The obverse features the couplet legend: “Sikka Mubarak Sahab-e-qiran sani Muhammad Shah Badshah Ghazi,” which translates to “The auspicious coin of the second Lord of the auspicious conjunction, Muhammad Shah, the Emperor, Warrior against Infidels.”

The reverse contains the formulaic regnal year and mint information: “Zarb Itawa Sanat 26 julus-e-manus-e-maimanat,” translating to “Struck at Itawa in the 26th year of his reign of associated prosperity.” The calligraphy is executed in the Nasta’liq script, divided by horizontal bars, which is a hallmark of Mughal coinage. The thick flan and deep striking are characteristic of the provincial mints of this era.

Condition Note

Grade: Very Fine (VF) The coin displays strong, clear legends with most of the calligraphy easily legible. There is moderate wear on the high points of the lettering, particularly in the center of the flan. The fields are relatively clean, and the coin retains a pleasing, natural silver patina.

Identification

• Name: Silver Rupee

• Ruler: Muhammad Shah (Mughal Emperor, r. 1719–1748)

• Mint: Itawa (likely, based on visible legends)

• Date/Regnal Year: Regnal Year (RY) 26 (visible on the reverse)

• Metal Composition: Silver (typically .900+ fineness)