⅕ Rupee - Shah Alam II 1805 front ⅕ Rupee - Shah Alam II 1805 back
⅕ Rupee - Shah Alam II 1805 photo
© Joseph Kunnappally

⅕ Rupee - Shah Alam II

1805 year
Silver 2.32 g 12.7 mm
Description
Issuer
Bombay Presidency (British India)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1805
Value
⅕ Rupee
Currency
Rupee (1672-1835)
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.32 g
Diameter
12.7 mm
Thickness
2.3 mm
Shape
Round
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#17861
Rarity index
83%

Reverse

Legend in Persian: Zarb Munbai Shah Alam julus

Translation: Struck at Bombay in the reign of Shah Alam

Edge

Plain

Comment

- Weight varies from 2.2gm to 2.3gm
- Diameter varies from 12.5mm to 13.2mm
- Thickness varies from 2.3mm to 2.42mm
- Mint name on coin: Mumbai, struck at Calicut for Tellicherry (Malabar coast)
- Although this coin is cataloged under the Bombay Presidency, the Malabar coastal area was transferred to the Madras Presidency in 1799. This coin dated 1805 technically belongs with the Madras Presidency coins.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1805 Shah Alam II ⅕ Rupee coin from Bombay Presidency (British India) is that it was made of silver, which was a significant change from the previous coins that were made of copper or other metals. This change in material was likely due to the increasing demand for silver coins during this time period. Additionally, the coin's design features a unique blend of Islamic and European influences, reflecting the cultural exchange and colonialism of the time.