Lot 2146

Description

Bengal Presidency, Benares Mint Coinage, First period, 1776-1812, with Darogah's marks, silver rupees (2), issued in the name of Shah Alam II (A.H. 1173-1221, A.D. 1759-1806), issued in [1198-9] (1783-5), Regnal Year 17/26, another Second Period 1812-1819, without Darogah's marks, issued in 1229 (1813-4), Regnal Year 17/49, (Pr.228-9, 286, KM.40, 41). Very fine, the last type rare. (2)

Ex. Spink Australia Sale 8, (lot 46 part for first coin). $$ It is interesting to note that only two dates are known for the second period issues, years 1228 and 1229, and these are both rare. They were issued as a stop-gap situation before the new mint was ready. Eventually the New Benares Mint finally opened in February 1815, and struck issues originally authorised in 1812, with these issues having an oblique milling on the edge.