1⁄32 Tenga - Muhammad Alim Khan bin Abdul-Ahad

Historical Context: This 1/32 Tenga was issued during the reign of Muhammad Alim Khan bin Abdul-Ahad, the last Emir of Bukhara, from 1911 to 1915. His rule marked a critical juncture for the Emirate, facing increasing Russian imperial influence and the impending revolutionary turmoil that would lead to its collapse in 1920. As a vassal state, Bukhara maintained its internal autonomy and right to coin money, symbolizing its enduring, albeit diminishing, sovereignty. This small denomination reflects the daily economic needs of the populace in a period of significant political and social change.

Artistry: The design of this copper fraction adheres to the traditional Islamic numismatic style prevalent in Central Asia. While specific engravers are typically unrecorded for such utilitarian issues, the aesthetic relies on elegant Arabic calligraphy. The obverse and reverse would feature the ruler's name and titles, the mint name (Bukhara), and the Hijri date, all condensed within the coin's diminutive 12mm diameter. The script, likely Naskh or Thuluth, prioritizes legibility and information conveyance over elaborate ornamentation, characteristic of Bukharan coinage from this period.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper with a weight of 2.2 grams, this 1/32 Tenga presents unique challenges for grading. High-points for wear and strike quality typically include the central portions of the Arabic legends, particularly the ruler's name and date. Due to its small module and the production methods of the era, examples often exhibit varying strike consistency, including minor weakness in peripheral legends, slight off-centering, or planchet irregularities. A well-centered strike with full, clear legends on both sides is considered exceptional for this type.