Delhi Sultanate Silver Tanka (Ghiyath al-din Tughluq)

India, Delhi Sultanate, Tughluq Dynasty · AH 720-725 (AD 1320-1325)

A round, hand-struck silver coin featuring stylized Arabic calligraphy on both sides across multiple lines, typical of medieval Islamic coinage in India.

Country: India, Delhi Sultanate, Tughluq Dynasty
Year: AH 720-725 (AD 1320-1325)
Denomination: 1 Tanka
Metal: Silver (approx. 90-95% fineness)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 4, 2026More india, delhi sultanate, tughluq dynasty coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$30 - $60 in Fine/VF condition, $80 - $150 in higher grades or with clear mint dates.

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.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF). The calligraphy is mostly legible though high points show wear; significant dark toning/tarnish is present.

Mintage & rarity

Relatively common for the series; millions were produced, but well-preserved specimens are sought after.

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.

Similar coins

Often confused with Tankas of Alauddin Khalji or Muhammad bin Tughluq; distinguished by the specific titular name 'Ghiyath al-din'.

Care & preservation

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.