Delhi Sultanate Silver Tanka (Ghiyath al-din Tughluq)
Country of Origin: India, Delhi Sultanate, Tughluq Dynasty
Year of Issue: AH 720-725 (AD 1320-1325)
Denomination: 1 Tanka
Composition: Silver (approx. 90-95% fineness)
Brief Description
A round, hand-struck silver coin featuring stylized Arabic calligraphy on both sides across multiple lines, typical of medieval Islamic coinage in India.
Historical Significance
Issued by Ghiyath al-din Tughluq, the founder of the Tughluq Dynasty. This period was a major transitional era in medieval Indian history, characterized by military expansion and significant administrative reforms in the Sultanate of Delhi.
Estimated Value
$30 - $60 in Fine/VF condition, $80 - $150 in higher grades or with clear mint dates.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish, as this removes the organic historical patina and destroys market value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Mint Mark
Hazrat Dehli (Delhi), typically inscribed in the margin or bottom line.
Mintage & Rarity
Relatively common for the series; millions were produced, but well-preserved specimens are sought after.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 10.8 - 11.2 grams; 24 - 26 mm.
Edge
Plain / Irregular (Hand-struck)
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF). The calligraphy is mostly legible though high points show wear; significant dark toning/tarnish is present.
Obverse (Front)
Three to four lines of Arabic calligraphy; usually reads 'al-Sultan al-Ghazi Ghiyath al-Dunya wa'l Din Abul Muzaffar' (The Sultan, the warrior, the aid of the world and of the faith, father of the conqueror).
Reverse (Back)
Arabic calligraphy within a circle or border: 'Tughluq Shah al-Sultan Nasir Amir al-Mu'minin' (Tughluq Shah, the Sultan, defender of the leader of the faithful), often including the mint name and date.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Legibility of the date and mint name is the primary factor. General eye appeal and absence of 'shroff marks' (testing cuts from medieval bankers) also increase value.
Similar Coins
Often confused with Tankas of Alauddin Khalji or Muhammad bin Tughluq; distinguished by the specific titular name 'Ghiyath al-din'.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for weight consistency (should be near 11g). Look for the 'die-strike' characteristics—authentic coins have sharp, compressed edges on the lettering rather than the soft, rounded appearance of cast replicas.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varieties exist with different marginal legends and minor variations in the calligraphy style or the inclusion of specific honorary titles for the Sultan.
Created At: 2026-06-04T19:21:51.153887