Mohur - Bhupindar Singh

Historical Context: This 1902 Mohur marks the early reign of Maharaja Bhupindar Singh of Patiala, a prominent Sikh princely state within the British Raj. Ascending in 1900, Bhupindar Singh became a pivotal figure, known for his progressive administration, lavish lifestyle, and influential role in the Chamber of Princes. Issuing this gold coinage underscored Patiala's semi-autonomous status and its cherished right to mint currency, a privilege maintained by larger princely states amidst growing British oversight.

Artistry: The Mohur's design follows Phulkian state numismatic traditions, likely displaying the ruler's name and titles in Gurmukhi script on the obverse, with the regnal year and perhaps a state emblem on the reverse. The engraver, typically anonymous, worked within a stylistic school blending indigenous calligraphic artistry with British Indian assay standards. The small, dense flan (18mm diameter for 10.65g) required concise, elegant inscription, balancing local identity with imperial influence.

Technical/Grading: As a gold issue, this Mohur generally features a strong strike, though variations are common in princely state coinage. Key high-points for wear assessment include the raised Gurmukhi script and any intricate decorative motifs, which would show flattening first. Collectors should scrutinize the sharpness of the legends and flan evenness. Despite its small size, the substantial weight for its diameter often results in a thick, well-struck flan, preserving fine details.