The Puddester Collection (Part I)

East India Company, Madras Presidency, Northern Circars: Native style coinages, Machhlipatan, silver Double-Rupee in the name of ‘Alamgir II (1167-73h/1754-9), 1194h, yr 21 [1779-80], sikka mubarak badshah ghazi alamgir [The auspicious coin of the victorious emperor Alamgir], rev. zarb machlipatan sanat 21 julus maimanat manus [Struck at Machhlipatan in the 21st year of tranquil prosperity], edge plain, 22.62g/7h (Prid. 291 [not in Sale]; Stevens 5.16; KM. 391). A superb and very desirable coin, about extremely fine, light grey iridescent tone, exceptionally rare, believed only three specimens known, one of which is in the British Museum £10,000-£15,000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Puddester Collection.

View
Collection

K. Wiggins Collection, Baldwin Auction 25 (London), 8 May 2001, lot 523, ticket.

Owner’s ticket and envelope.

After the capture of Machhlipatan (Masulipatam) from the French in 1759 and the subsequent cession of the Circars, silver and copper coins began to be issued, initially with regnal years and titles of ‘Alamgir II, and later with those of his son, Shah ‘Alam II. Although this coin is in the name of ‘Alamgir II, the year 21 it bears relates to the reign of Shah ‘Alam II. Double-rupees were not struck for circulation, so these pieces must have been made for a special purpose