½ Rupee - Muhammad Shah [Shambhuji II] ND

The ½ Rupee coin from the Princely state of Kolhapur, minted during the reign of Muhammad Shah [Shambhuji II] in 1759-1760, features a unique blend of Islamic and Maratha architectural styles on its reverse side. The coin's design includes a depiction of a mosque with a dome and minarets, surrounded by a ornate archway with Islamic calligraphy. At the same time, the coin also features a Maratha-style temple with a shikhara (tower) and a flagpole, reflecting the cultural fusion that was characteristic of the Indian princely states during that period. This blend of architectural styles is a rare example of the cultural exchange and syncretism that existed in India during the 18th century.

• early modern