⅕ Rupee - Shah Alam II ND

Reverse

Legend in Persian: Sanah Julus (RY), zarb Munbai

Translation: Struck in Bombay, during the (RY) year of prosperous reign

Edge

Plain

Comment

- 1/5 Rupee is also known as "velli fanam" or "Bombay billy"
- Although mint name on coin is 'Munbai' (Bombay), these coins, with the crude style of engraving, were most likely struck in Tellicherry, Calicut or Cannanore for use along the Malabar coast
- Another example showing a different part of the die (click on image below)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ⅕ Rupee coin from Bombay Presidency (British India) made of Silver weighing 2.2 g is that it was issued during the reign of Shah Alam II, who was the Mughal Emperor at the time. This coin was part of the standard circulation currency used in British India during the 18th century, and it features the image of the Emperor on one side and the British East India Company's logo on the other. Despite being made of silver, the coin was not worth a full rupee, but rather one-fifth of a rupee, hence the name ⅕ Rupee. This coin is a unique piece of history that showcases the blending of Mughal and British influences in India during that time period.

• early modern
• modern
• british colony