2018-06-22 Fri

22nd June 1555 is the most important day in the history of Mughal period in India. This is a day when Humayun declares Akbar as his heir apparent.

Akbar was only thirteen years when he inherited the throne and became Emperor of India. During his reign, Mughal Empire reached its highest peak. He played a vital role in building Mughal Empire in the Indian Subcontinent.

Akbar began his reign by adopting the Shahrukhi standard but reformed the Suri standard to issue gold coins called Muhars. Silver Rupees and copper coins called Dams; 40 dams were equal to one rupee; 9 silver rupees were equal to 1 Muhar. He also issues heavier Muhars fetching 10 and 12 rupees. His coins were issued in a square and polygonal shapes called ‘Mehrabi’ in addition to the circular.

Akbar initially issued coins with the Kalima till 1585 A.D. but in the thirtieth year of his reign he found the new religious creed ‘Din-i-Illahi’ and issued coins with the Illahi credo ‘Allah hu Akbar Jalla Jalaalah’ (God is great, may His glory be glorified). He also introduced the practice of issuing coins with Persian verse praising the ruler which was emulated by all his successors.

Akbar’s coins remained as some of the most excellent examples of aesthetics and artistic excellence in Indian coinage.

Image Source: Classical Numismatic Gallery