Catalog
1 Sel
| Issuer | Princely State of Manipur |
|---|---|
| Year | |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
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| Technique | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | Plain, featureless field with no devices, legends, or decorative elements, consistent with the primitive cast coinage of Manipur. The surface displays an uneven texture resulting from the casting process, with a deep olive-green and dark patina over the bell-metal flan. The rim is irregular and slightly chipped, typical of the rough manufacturing standards of this undated series. |
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| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Plain |
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| Mintage | Log in to see details |
| Additional information |
Manipur's coinage tradition predates British annexation in 1891 by centuries, with the sel serving as the smallest unit in a local system largely insulated from Mughal and later colonial monetary influence. Bell metal — a high-tin bronze alloy more commonly cast into temple bells and ceremonial vessels — was the material of choice for these diminutive pieces, a reflection of the metallurgical traditions of the Meitei craftsmen rather than any minting convention imported from outside the valley.