1 Falus - Nasir ud Din Ahmad Shah I

Historical Context: This copper 1 Falus was issued during the pivotal reign of Nasir ud Din Ahmad Shah I, a foundational ruler of the Gujarat Sultanate (1411-1443 CE). Ahmad Shah I is celebrated for consolidating the Sultanate's independence from the Delhi Sultanate, establishing Ahmedabad as its new capital, and fostering a period of administrative stability and architectural flourishing. As a common denomination, the Falus played a crucial role in the daily economic transactions of his burgeoning realm, reflecting the widespread use of copper coinage for the populace.

Artistry: The artistry of this Falus adheres to the prevalent Islamic epigraphic tradition of the Indian sultanates. Lacking figural representation, the design relies entirely on elegant Arabic calligraphy, typically featuring the ruler's name and titles. While specific engravers are rarely identified for these utilitarian copper issues, the stylistic school emphasizes clarity and religious adherence through script. The design, though often simpler than higher denominations, aimed for legibility and conveyed the authority of the issuing monarch.

Technical/Grading: Technically, this 1 Falus (9.18g, 17mm) often presents with characteristics typical of early 15th-century copper coinage. High-points for wear or strike quality would primarily reside in the central elements of the inscription, particularly the prominent letters of the ruler's name. Strike quality can vary considerably, with examples frequently exhibiting irregular flans, off-center strikes, and inconsistent striking pressure, a testament to the manual minting processes of the era.