Jahangir (AH 1014-1037 /1607-1627 AD) Agra Mint, Silver Rupee, Month Bahman (Aquarius), AH 1028/13 RY, (Wt: 11.21 gms, Dia: 21.00 mm,)

Obverse: Within triple borders, the Persian legend “Ilahi Mah Bahman, zarb Agra, 1028/13”, with delicate floral motifs beneath the inscription, creating the impression of calligraphy resting upon an ornamental carpet.

Reverse: Within triple borders, the Persian legend “Noor-ud-din Jahangir Shah Akbar Shah”, similarly embellished with floral motifs beneath the inscription, echoing the appearance of calligraphy resting upon a richly patterned carpet.

A Remarkable Anomaly: Jahangir’s Square Rupee of Bahman

Following the restoration of the normal weight standard in AH 1020 / RY 6, Agra’s rupees followed an alternating monthly pattern: round rupees for Farwardin, Khurdad, Amardad, Mihr, Azar and Bahman, and square rupees for Ardibihisht, Tir, Shahrewar, Aban, Di and Isfandarmuz.

The appearance of 'Bahman' the eleventh month, corresponding to 'Aquarius' on the present square rupee is a remarkable departure from the established sequence. A month ordinarily associated with round rupees appears here on a square flan, making this an exceptional anomaly within the series. According to our research, this is only the second recorded specimen of this anomaly. The previously documented example, posted on Zeno#82692 in 2010, displays Very Fine details. Our research has traced no further examples in published auction records or other accessible sources since that posting. Beyond its numismatic significance, the present coin is a beautifully preserved expression of Jahangir’s ornamental silver coinage. Brilliant, blast-white surfaces highlight delicate floral and scrolling motifs interwoven with the principal calligraphy. The sharply rendered inscriptions, complete peripheral borders and precise centring create an unusually balanced and visually impressive composition.

The combination of this unexpected month-and-shape pairing, elaborate ornamentation and mint State preservation gives the coin exceptional appeal. Both a striking work of Mughal art and an important departure from Agra’s regular monthly series, it merits particular attention from advanced collectors of Mughal and Islamic coinage. We are therefore delighted to present the first auction offering of this square Bahman variety. Graded by NGC as AU 58, Exceedingly Rare.