Lot 2128

Description

Bengal Presidency, Indian Design, Calcutta Mint, 1761, in the name of Shah Alam II (A.H. 1173-1221, A.D. 1759-1806), silver eighth rupee, regnal year 2, with privy mark of star, (cf.Pr. 14, KM.-). Very fine with attractive grey tone, excessively rare if not unique and unpublished.

Ex Glendining's 1964 and Colin E. Pitchfork Collection, Noble Numismatics Sale 48 (lot 2123). Pridmore (p.197) notes that the issue from Calcutta with the new mint mark star took place from July 28th 1757 in the name of Alamgir II and later on coins of Shah Alam II. The issue of this type took place from 1757 - 1765. The issues of Alamgir II were of years only 4 and 5 and of Shah Alam II years 2 - 7. New dies were prepared (p.198) for issues to commence with year 2 and to be ready by 15th July 1761. Examples are known for rupees for year 4, whereas examples of years 4 and 5 are known for eighth rupees for Alamgir II, none are known for Shah Alam II, although all fractions were probably issued. Year 2 can, only with this star mintmark, occur for the ruler Shah Alam II. This piece is apparently the first example recorded of an eighth rupee issued for this short period in the name of Shah Alam II from Calcutta mint.