1 Tilla - Abu’l-Fayz Khan

Historical Context: This 1 Tilla gold coin was issued by Abu’l-Fayz Khan, the penultimate ruler of the Janid (Astrakhanid) dynasty in the Khanate of Bukhara, reigning from 1705 to 1747. This period marked the terminal decline of Janid authority, characterized by increasing decentralization, tribal conflicts, and external pressures, notably the Persian invasions under Nader Shah. Abu’l-Fayz Khan's reign saw the effective end of Janid power, with the Manghit emirate gradually asserting control, eventually leading to the dynasty's formal overthrow shortly after his death. The Tilla represented the standard gold currency of the Khanate, reflecting a fragile economic stability amidst political turmoil.

Artistry: Janid coinage, including this Tilla, adheres strictly to traditional Islamic aniconic principles. There are no known individual engraver signatures for this specific issuer or era. The artistry is primarily calligraphic, featuring intricate Arabic inscriptions in Naskh or Thuluth script. The obverse typically presents the Kalima (Shahada), while the reverse displays the ruler's name, titles (e.g., "Abu’l-Fayz Bahadur Khan"), the mint name (likely Bukhara), and the Hijri date. The aesthetic emphasis lies in the elegant arrangement and legibility of the script, often within decorative cartouches or borders, rather than figurative representations or Western-style artistic schools.

Technical/Grading: For this 1 Tilla type, critical grading points include the clarity and completeness of the central calligraphic legends on both obverse and reverse. Due to the nature of hammered coinage, off-center strikes and weak areas are common, particularly affecting the marginal legends such as the mint name and date. Strong strikes that fully render all diacritics and ligatures are highly desirable. The planchet quality, often irregular, can also impact eye appeal; coins with well-rounded, evenly struck flans are premium. The weight of 4.66 grams is standard; any significant deviation may indicate wear or clipping.