1 Toka Paisa Aurangabad

Historical Context: This 1 Toka Paisa, minted in Aurangabad in 1831 (AH 1247), originates from the Princely State of Hyderabad under Mir Farqunda Ali Khan Nasir-ud-Daula, Asaf Jah IV (1829-1857). This era saw a complex interplay of local sovereignty and increasing British paramountcy. Copper coinage like this Toka Paisa formed the backbone of the regional economy, facilitating daily transactions and demonstrating Hyderabad's fiscal autonomy. The Aurangabad mint was a vital production center for the Nizam's currency.

Artistry: The engraver of this common copper issue is anonymous, typical for the period. Stylistically, it adheres to the Indo-Islamic tradition, featuring elegant Persian calligraphic inscriptions. The obverse likely displays the ruler's name and possibly a regnal year, while the reverse prominently shows the mint name, Aurangabad, and the Hijri date. The design prioritizes legibility and essential information over elaborate pictorial elements, reflecting its utilitarian function.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a copper flan (7.30 grams, 18.0 millimeters), this coin's technical qualities are key for assessment. High-points for wear or strike weakness typically include the central calligraphy, especially the ruler's titles and mint name. A premium example would exhibit a strong, even strike across the entire flan, with clear, well-defined legends, minimal planchet imperfections, and good centering, often variable on these issues.