1 Pitis - Sultan Zain al-Abadin Muazzam Shah

Historical Context: This 1 Pitis coin, issued by the Sultanate of Batubara (1745-1764), reflects Sultan Zain al-Abadin Muazzam Shah's monetary autonomy. The mid-18th century saw Batubara navigating complex regional politics and growing European influence, yet maintaining sovereignty. As a tin denomination, the Pitis was vital for daily commerce, highlighting the Sultanate's economic independence and capacity to issue currency amidst a dynamic geopolitical landscape on Sumatra's east coast.

Artistry: The engraver is unrecorded, but the coin's artistry aligns with functional Islamic numismatic traditions of Southeast Asia. Struck in tin, the design typically presents clear Arabic script on both sides, likely detailing the ruler's name and titles. The stylistic school emphasizes legibility over ornamentation, a hallmark of low-denomination coinage. This minimalist approach underscores the coin's utilitarian purpose, prioritizing easy identification for daily transactions.

Technical/Grading: With a 17.5mm diameter and 1.00 gg weight, technical strike quality of these tin Pitis coins often varies. Due to tin's softness and period production, examples frequently display weak strikes, particularly on outer legends. High-points, such as central Arabic letterforms, are usually most defined, though full detail is uncommon. Planchet irregularities, off-centering, and corrosion are typical, making sharply struck, well-preserved specimens exceedingly rare and highly prized.