⅔ Gani - Mahmud Shah

Historical Context: This ⅔ Gani copper coin dates to the nominal reign of Mahmud Shah Bahmani (1482-1518), a period marking the advanced decline and fragmentation of the Bahmani Sultanate. Though titled Sultan, Mahmud Shah was largely a puppet ruler, with effective power wielded by regents like Qasim Barid. This era saw the gradual emergence of independent Deccan Sultanates, yet coinage in the Sultan's name symbolized a lingering, albeit diminished, central authority. Such fractional copper issues were crucial for everyday commerce in a fracturing empire.

Artistry: Characteristic of Indo-Islamic numismatic traditions from the Deccan, the coin’s design adheres to a calligraphic aesthetic rather than figural representation. The anonymous engraver utilized clear, often angular Naskh or Thuluth script to render the royal titles and name of Mahmud Shah. For fractional copper issues, design prioritizes legibility of the ruler's name and honorific, often omitting mint or date details due to limited flan size. The ⅔ Gani denomination is noteworthy, indicating a specific sub-unit within the Bahmani monetary system.

Technical/Grading: As a manually struck copper issue, strike quality on this ⅔ Gani varies significantly. High-points for wear and strike typically occur on the raised elements of the central legends, such as the upper curves and terminals of the Arabic script. Centering is frequently off-flan, and the full legend may not be present due to the 19mm diameter and manual striking. Planchet quality ranges from crude to reasonably flat, with common surface imperfections and varying degrees of corrosion inherent to ancient copper coinage.