Catalog
| Issuer | Gujarat, Sultanate of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1511-1526 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Tanka |
| Currency | Rupee (1396-1583) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.40 g |
| Diameter | 14.29 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | GG#G243 |
| Obverse description | Note: Gujarat Standard Al-muwaiyad ba-ta`i-ir-Rahman/Shams/al-duniya waldin Abul nasr |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Muzaffar shah bin mahmud shah al-sultan khallada allah mulkahu within vestiges of peaked square within circle and dotted circle |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1511-1526) - AH917 to AH932 - |
| Numisquare ID | 1007453620 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver 1/2 Tanka was issued by Shams-ud-din Muzaffar Shah II, Sultan of Gujarat (1511-1526). Succeeding Mahmud Begada, his reign saw continued prosperity and political influence for the Gujarat Sultanate. He engaged in military conflicts against Malwa and Mewar, and navigated strategic interactions with the emerging Portuguese power. This denomination was a crucial part of a stable currency system, underpinning Gujarat's thriving trade and economy during his rule.
Artistry: The engraver of this coin remains anonymous, typical for the era. Its artistry adheres to the Islamic numismatic tradition of the Gujarat Sultanate, emphasizing elegant calligraphy. The design primarily features the ruler's name and titles, often in Nastaliq or Thuluth script, arranged to fit the small 14.29 mm flan. Decorative elements are minimal; the beauty of the script serves as the principal aesthetic, conveying royal authority and piety through precise execution.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver at 3.40 grams, this 1/2 Tanka is a product of hammered coinage. Common technical aspects include potential off-centring, uneven strike pressure, and variable planchet quality, affecting legend clarity. For grading, key high-points are the central calligraphy elements, including letter ascenders and descenders, and any mint or date information. A well-centred strike with full, legible legends, challenging on this small diameter, would command a premium.