Mughal Empire, Aurangzeb Alamgir (AH 1068–1118 / AD 1658–1707), Baldah Faqira Burhanpur Mint, Silver Rupee, (Wt: 11.39 grams, Dia: 22.05 mm) (KM # 297.3)

Obv: Persian legend “Sanah julus maimanat manus, zarb Burhanpur,” with the mint epithet “Baldah Faqira.” 

Rev: Persian legend “Abu’l-Zafar Muhi-ud-din Muhammad Aurangzeb Alamgir Badshah Ghazi”

Burhanpur held an important place in Mughal administration as a gateway to the Deccan and a base for imperial campaigns in southern India. Its association with Aurangzeb began during his service as viceroy, before his accession to the throne. The mint epithet Balda-i-Fakhira, meaning “The Splendid City,” reflects the prestige attached to this historic centre. Bearing Aurangzeb’s extended imperial titulature, including Abu’l Zafar Muhi-ud-din, this rupee brings together the emperor’s assertion of sovereignty and the distinguished identity of one of the empire’s important southern cities.