1 Pūl - Muhammad Khudyar Khan

Historical Context: This 1 Pūl copper coin was issued during the first reign of Muhammad Khudyar Khan (1849-1853), a pivotal period for the Khoqand Khanate. As one of Central Asia's last independent states, Khoqand faced increasing Russian encroachment and internal political turmoil. Khudyar Khan, a complex figure with multiple ascensions to the throne, utilized these copper pūl as essential small denomination currency, reflecting the economic necessities of a sovereign khanate striving to maintain stability amidst regional pressures.

Artistry: Following established Islamic numismatic traditions, the artistry of this pūl eschews figural representation in favor of sophisticated calligraphy. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the design school emphasizes elegant Arabic script, likely naskh or thuluth, to convey the ruler's name, titles, and the mint city of Khoqand. The aesthetic focus is on the beauty and legibility of the inscription, often arranged within simple linear or dotted borders, reflecting the cultural and religious tenets of the time.

Technical/Grading: With a weight of 4.4 grams and a diameter of 19.5 millimeters, this copper pūl represents a standard module for the period. High-points for grading typically include the raised elements of the calligraphy, particularly the serifs and flourishes of the Arabic script. Technical strike quality can vary significantly; collectors should look for well-centered strikes with full, clear inscriptions. Weak strikes, planchet imperfections, and minor off-centering are common for these utilitarian copper issues, making fully detailed examples highly prized.