2020-11-27 Fri

Awadh was a Princely State during British rule in India; today it is located in the Indian States of Uttar Pradesh. Princely State Awadh traces its origin from the ancient Hindu Kingdom of Kosala, with Ayodhya as its capital. During the medieval period, Awadh was also ruled by Mughals under the leadership of Emperor Akbar.

Wajid Ali Shah was the eleventh and the last rule of Princely State Awadh. He sat on the throne of Awadh on 13th February 1847 CE and ruled in until 11th February 1856 CE. After sitting on the throne of Princely State Awadh he issued coin is gold, silver, and copper from Lucknow and Muhammadabad Banaras mint. These coins are found in various denominations viz. Rupee, Ashrafi, and Falus in various fractions.

This gold Ashrafi was issued by Wajid Ali Shah during his rule in Princely State Awadh. The obverse of this coin is inscribed with the Persian legend Sikka zad bar sim wa zar az fazl tayeed Ilah, Zile haq Wajid Ali Sultan Alam Badshah’ with AH date. The reverse of the coin depicts the coat of arm: a crown with parasol above it, flanked by mermaids holding a flag, crossed swords below and legend ‘Julus Mainamat Manus Zarb Dar-Us-Sultanate Lucknow Mulk awadh sanah’ inscribed around the circle.

Image Courtesy: Classical Numismatic Gallery