1 Tanka - Sher Shah Suri Shergarh Bakkar mint

Historical Context: This 1 Tanka silver coin was issued during the reign of Sher Shah Suri (1538-1545), a pivotal figure who established the Sur Empire, challenging and temporarily displacing the Mughal emperor Humayun. Sher Shah was renowned for his administrative reforms, including standardizing coinage across his vast domain. The Bakkar mint, located in present-day Sindh, signifies the extensive reach of his dominion and his effective decentralized administration, crucial for consolidating power across a diverse empire.

Artistry: The Tanka's design exemplifies the classical Indo-Islamic numismatic tradition, characterized by its aniconic nature and profound emphasis on calligraphic beauty. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the stylistic school prioritizes elegant Arabic script, typically featuring the Kalima (Islamic declaration of faith) on the obverse and the ruler's name, mint, and date on the reverse. The precision and aesthetic appeal of the Nastaliq or Naskh script are central to its artistic merit and historical documentation.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 11.2 grams and measuring 28 mm, this Tanka adheres to Sher Shah's standardized weight system. For grading, key high-points include the legibility of the central calligraphy, particularly the mint and date details, which are often susceptible to strike weakness or wear. Typical technical qualities involve a broad, often slightly irregular flan. While generally well-struck for the period, minor off-centering or peripheral legend weakness can occur, impacting overall grade.