1 Rupee - Farrukhsiyar Bhudargad

Historical Context: Struck in 1192 AH (1778 CE) at the Bhudargad mint by the Maratha Empire, this 1 Rupee coin exemplifies late 18th-century Indian politics. Bearing the name of Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar (r. 1713-1719), it represents a common Maratha practice, pseudo-Mughal coinage, asserting their de facto sovereignty. By this era, Marathas dominated, having eclipsed Mughal authority, yet strategically maintained traditional numismatic forms.

Artistry: The coin's design adheres to the Indo-Islamic numismatic tradition, featuring elegant Persian calligraphy. The stylistic school is late Mughal provincial, adapted by the Marathas. While specific engravers are unknown, the obverse and reverse would display the emperor's name and titles, the mint name 'Zarb Bhudargad', and the Hijri date 1192. The Nastaliq script, often arranged circularly or linearly within a dotted border, highlights the prevalent calligraphic artistry of the region.

Technical/Grading: This silver rupee, weighing 11.43 grams and measuring 22.3 mm, exhibits typical Maratha minting. High-points for wear assessment include central portions of the Persian couplets and intricate calligraphic dots. Strike quality varies, often showing broad, somewhat irregular flans and occasional off-center strikes. Die adjustments and minor planchet flaws are not uncommon. Despite these variations, silver purity was generally maintained to a high standard, reflecting Maratha economic stability.