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The British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 is a coin of significant historical and numismatic importance. It was issued during the reign of the British East India Company, which held administrative control over large parts of India during the late 18th century. The coin reflects the British colonial influence in India and the complex monetary system of the time. The Bengal Presidency, one of the three primary administrative divisions of British India, played a pivotal role in the issuance of currency, and this gold mohur stands as a symbol of the economic and political forces at play during the period. The coin was minted at a time when the East India Company was at the height of its power and influence in India, marking an era of great change and development within the subcontinent. Today, the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 is a highly sought-after piece for collectors and investors alike, offering a glimpse into the colonial history of India and the artistry behind its coinage.
The British East India Company’s control over much of India during the 18th century was central to the political and economic dynamics of the region. The Bengal Presidency, established in 1765, was one of the most crucial territories under British control. It was a region rich in resources, trade, and cultural significance, and as such, the British sought to standardize the currency system within the area. The issuance of gold mohur coins, including the 1788 variety, played a major role in the economic system of the time. The gold mohur was an important coin used in the daily commerce of the Bengal Presidency, as well as in trade with foreign nations. The 1788 gold mohur is thus not only a numismatic artifact but also a representation of the British East India Company’s influence over India’s economy and its control over trade and resources.
The design of the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 is a blend of British and Indian artistic elements, reflecting the unique fusion of cultures under British colonial rule. The obverse of the coin features the name of the British East India Company, often in Persian, which was the language of administration during that period. It also includes the title of the Sultan, along with the year of minting, which in this case is 1788. The reverse of the coin typically features the denomination, which in the case of the mohur is one of the higher denominations in use at the time, and often depicts the East India Company’s emblem, which includes elements like a lion or a palm tree. The overall design combines Persian calligraphy with the symbolism of British authority, underscoring the colonial relationship between Britain and India. The details on these coins were finely executed, with intricate designs that highlighted the precision of the minting process.
The mint that produced the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 was one of several official mints established by the British East India Company. The most important mints during this period were located in major cities such as Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras. Calcutta, as the capital of the Bengal Presidency, was home to the most prominent mint and played a crucial role in the production of high-value coins like the mohur. The minting process for these coins was sophisticated for its time, requiring skilled artisans and technicians to strike each coin with precision. The coin was created using the traditional methods of minting, with a hand-operated press used to strike the designs onto the gold planchets. The high-quality workmanship seen in these coins is reflective of the East India Company’s desire to project its power and wealth through its currency.
The mintage of the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 is not precisely documented, but it is understood that it was struck in limited quantities, especially when compared to more widely circulated silver and copper coins of the period. The mohur was a high-value coin used for large transactions, often in international trade or in dealings with the wealthier sections of Indian society. Due to its precious metal content and high face value, the mohur was not commonly used in everyday transactions, but rather for more significant purchases or as a store of wealth. The limited mintage of the 1788 mohur, combined with its role in facilitating large-scale trade and commerce, has contributed to its rarity and desirability among collectors. While the exact number of these coins that were minted is not known, surviving examples are considered rare and valuable, especially in well-preserved condition.
The condition of the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 plays a vital role in determining its value on the market. Coins that are well-preserved, with minimal signs of wear and clear details, are highly sought after by collectors and investors. The example discussed here, graded as AU (About Uncirculated), indicates that the coin has been well-maintained, retaining much of its original luster and design features. The AU grade suggests that the coin shows only light wear, typically from circulation, but no significant abrasions or damage. The details on the obverse and reverse are clear, with the inscriptions and imagery still easily identifiable. Coins in this condition are considered to be in excellent shape for their age, and they are more desirable than those in lower grades, such as Fine or Very Fine. Coins with higher grades, such as MS (Mint State), would command even higher premiums due to their pristine condition and minimal signs of handling.
The British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788, especially in AU condition, is highly collectible and can fetch significant prices at auction or from numismatic dealers. Its historical significance, coupled with its fine gold content, makes it an attractive option for investors in precious metals as well. The combination of the mohur's historical value and its role in the economy of colonial India gives it both intrinsic and numismatic worth. Collectors of colonial-era Indian coins, particularly those with an interest in British India, find the 1788 mohur to be a prized piece. Additionally, as a gold coin, it serves as a hedge against inflation and is often considered a safe and stable investment asset. The rarity of this coin, along with its aesthetic appeal and historical significance, makes it a standout item for collectors of world coins.
In conclusion, the British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 is a remarkable coin that holds both historical and numismatic significance. It serves as a representation of the British East India Company’s control over India’s economy during the late 18th century and is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the time. The coin’s design, minting process, and the limited mintage have contributed to its rarity and desirability. Its condition, especially in AU grade, enhances its appeal to collectors, making it a valuable item in any collection. The British India Bengal Presidency Gold Mohur 1788 remains a sought-after piece among numismatists, historians, and investors alike, offering a unique glimpse into the colonial history of India and the British Empire’s economic influence over the subcontinent.