1 Tilla - Abu’l-Fayz Khan

Historical Context: This 1 Tilla coin was issued during Abu’l-Fayz Khan's reign (1705-1747), the penultimate ruler of the Janid dynasty of Bukhara. His tenure marked a severe decline, characterized by internal strife and increasing external pressures, notably from Persia under Nadir Shah. The continued issuance of gold Tillas, a standard denomination, underscored the Janids' weakening claim to sovereignty and economic stability in Central Asia.

Artistry: The design of this Tilla exemplifies traditional epigraphic artistry prevalent in Islamic Central Asian coinage. While the engraver remains anonymous, typical for the period, the coin adheres to a stylistic school emphasizing elegant Arabic calligraphy. The obverse invariably features the Kalima, while the reverse displays Abu’l-Fayz Khan's regnal titles, name, mint, and date. Aesthetic appeal derives from the meticulous arrangement and execution of these religious and dynastic legends, devoid of figural representation, typically in Naskh or Thuluth script.

Technical/Grading: Struck in gold at 4.66 grams, this Tilla exhibits typical technical characteristics of 18th-century Janid coinage. High-points for grading include the legibility of the mint name, date, and central elements of the Kalima and ruler’s titles. Due to manual striking and hand-engraved dies on often irregular flans, collectors should anticipate variations in strike quality, including off-centering, weakness in peripheral legends, and occasional planchet imperfections. A well-centered strike with full legends, particularly the mint and date, is highly desirable.