10 Tenga - Muhammad Alim Khan bin Abdul-Ahad

Historical Context: Muhammad Alim Khan bin Abdul-Ahad was the last Emir of Bukhara, reigning from 1910 until the Emirate's fall to the Bolsheviks in 1920. This 10 Tenga coin, dated to the final two years of his rule (AH 1338-1339), serves as a poignant numismatic artifact from a collapsing state. Issued amidst growing Russian revolutionary influence and internal strife, it embodies the desperate final attempts of an ancient Central Asian khanate to assert its sovereignty before its transformation into the Bukharan People's Soviet Republic.

Artistry: The engraver of this 10 Tenga coin remains anonymous, typical for Central Asian coinage of the era. Stylistically, the coin adheres to the traditional Islamic epigraphic school, featuring intricate Arabic calligraphy in Naskh script. The design is dominated by the ruler's name and titles, the mint name "Bukhara al-Sharif" (Noble Bukhara), and the Hijri date. Lacking figural representations in accordance with Islamic aniconism, the artistic merit lies in the elegant arrangement and execution of the script, which fills the expansive 29mm planchet.

Technical/Grading: Struck in brass, this 10 Tenga coin often exhibits variable strike quality, characteristic of wartime issues from a beleaguered state. High-points for grading typically include the raised elements of the calligraphy, particularly the diacritical marks and the outer legends, which are prone to early wear. The large diameter (29mm) for a brass flan can sometimes result in areas of weakness or flatness, especially towards the rims. Collectors should examine for full detail on the script and any planchet irregularities common to such late-period issues.