1 Rupee - Ghiyath al-Din Bahadur

Historical Context: The 1 Rupee of Ghiyath al-Din Bahadur Shah (1555-1561) emerges from a tumultuous period in Bengal. As a scion of the Sur dynasty, he struggled to maintain independence amidst the collapse of the Sur Empire and the ascendance of the Mughals under Akbar. His reign, part of the Muhammad Shahi dynasty, was marked by consolidating regional power against rivals. This silver rupee served as a vital assertion of his sovereignty and legitimacy, symbolizing his brief but significant rule as Sultan of Bengal during a period of intense political flux.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this rupee exemplifies the distinctive Indo-Islamic numismatic tradition of the Bengal Sultanate. The design is predominantly calligraphic, featuring elegant Thuluth or Naskh script, often within square or circular frames. The obverse typically bears the Kalima, while the reverse displays the ruler's name, titles, mint, and date. The broad flan of 29.88 mm facilitated clear, well-spaced legends, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic that prioritized legibility and the sacred message over figural representation.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 11.21 grams and measuring 29.88 mm, this silver rupee exhibits technical qualities characteristic of its era. High-points for grading include the raised elements of the Arabic script, such as vertical strokes and diacritical marks. A premium example would display a full, centered strike, ensuring all legends are present and legible, with minimal die wear. The broad flan generally accommodated the intricate legends well, though off-centering or weak strikes can obscure marginal inscriptions, impacting overall eye appeal and grade.