2017-07-29 Sat

Abul Fath Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar was the third ruler of Mughal dynasty in India. He succeeded his father Humayun in the year 1556 AD and ruled until his death in 1605. He sat on the throne when he was just 13 years old. Akbar defeated Hemu, a Hindu general of Sur dynasty in the Second Battle of Panipat. Akbar reacquired the Delhi throne and re-established the Mughal rule.

Akbar also founded a new religion known as ‘Din-e-Ilahi’. The ‘Hijri era’ from his coin, was changed to the 'Ilahi Era' during the 29th year of his reign. This system of Era was continued until his death. Akbar issued different coins in gold, silver, and copper.

Akbar's coinage can be divided into two categories; ’Kalima’ and ‘Ilahi’ (Non-Kalima). The 'Kalima' coins, which he issued have name and title of the king on the obverse and 'Kalima' on the reverse. 'Ilahi' coins which Akbar issued, have 'ilahi' creed on the obverse and mint name, ilahi date and ilahi month on the reverse.

This Ilahi type silver rupee, minted at Agra during the 44th year of his reign, during the month 'Ardibihisht' was sold for INR 36,000 at Todywalla Auction held in Mumbai during 24th April 2010.

The obverse of this coin is inscribed as ‘Allahu Akbar’ on the top and ‘Jaljallalah’ on the bottom. The reverse of this coin is inscribed with the name of the ilahi month ‘Ardibihisht’ on top and regnal year 44 with mint name ‘Agra’ at the bottom.