2017-03-29 Wed

We have studied history in terms of economics, political warfares, and architecture. All these events lead a monarch to expand his territories. India has always seen such monarchs who came and ruled for a longer period of time; among them were the Mughals.

Mughal Empire was established in 1526 when Ibrahim Lodi of Lodi Dynasty was defeated by Babur in the First Battle of Panipat. They ruled Delhi for almost 320 years. Rulers of this dynasty have contributed a lot to Indian art and architecture; one of them was 'Akbar'.

Akbar, the third ruler of Mughal Empire succeeded his father Humayun in 1556 AD. During his reign, Mughal Empire tripled in size and wealth, which can clearly be seen from his coinage.

Coins of Akbar have set up a new chapter in the study Numismatics. He issued coins in different shapes and also in unique ‘Mehrab' (Lozenge) shape. His coins depict beautiful calligraphy.

Akbar also founded a new religion known as ‘Din-e-illahi'. In his 29th regnal year, he also changed ‘Hijri Era' from his coins to the ‘Illahi Year'. This new era is based on the Solar year and it continued until the end of his reign.

This silver Quarter-Tanka which weighs around 2.8g, minted in Urdu Zafar Qarin, was sold out for INR 34, 000 at Todywalla Auction. The obverse of the coin inscribed as ‘Allahu Akbar Alif’ and the reverse of the coin is inscribed as ‘Urdu Zafar Qarin'.