⅔ Gani - Mahmud Shah

Historical Context: The ⅔ Gani of Mahmud Shah (1482-1518), dated to 1482-1485, originates from the Bahmani Sultanate during its terminal decline. This period marks the nascent stages of Mahmud Shah's reign, when the Sultanate was fracturing, and he was largely a puppet of powerful nobles. Provincial governors asserted independence, foreshadowing the Deccan Sultanates. Copper coinage, essential for local commerce, reflects this localized economic reality amidst widespread political instability across the Deccan plateau.

Artistry: Bahmani copper coinage, including this ⅔ Gani, adheres to a distinct Indo-Islamic numismatic tradition. Engraver signatures are unknown. The stylistic school prioritizes elegant, clear calligraphy, typically Naskh or Thuluth script, for the ruler's name, titles, and denomination. Aniconic by design, the artistry focuses on legibility and aesthetic arrangement of Arabic legends within the flan, eschewing figural representation. This consistency reflects a centralized minting standard, even as the Sultanate fragmented.

Technical/Grading: For this ⅔ Gani type, key grading high-points include complete, sharp rendering of Mahmud Shah's name and titulature on the obverse, particularly the *al-Sultan* component. On the reverse, full legibility of the fractional denomination and the Hijri date is paramount, as dates are often weakly struck or off-flan. A well-centered strike, presenting full legends within the 19mm flan, significantly enhances appeal. Minimal wear to calligraphic details and absence of significant corrosion or flan imperfections are crucial for higher grades.