Razia Sultana Delhi Sultanate Delhi Mint Billon Jital Extremely Rare Coin

Delhi Sultanate, Jalalat al-din Radiyya / Razia Sultana, (AH 634-637, 1236-1240 CE), Composition: Billon, Denomination: 1 Jital, Weight: 3.42 grams, Diameter: 15 mm, Possibly Delhi Mint, References: Tye #394, GG #D106; Mitch WI #2485, about very fine, + extremely rare.

Obverse: Legend in Persian “al-Sultan al-‘Azam Radiyyat al-dunya wa ‘l din”,

Reverse: crude horseman to right, with Nagari legend around “Sri Hamira”,

Razia Sultana was the first and only woman to rule the Delhi Sultanate, breaking rigid medieval norms. She ascended the throne in 1236 CE (AH 634) after the death of her father Iltutmish, who had considered her more capable than his sons. Her brother Rukn ud din Firuz proved ineffective, leading to Razia’s coronation at Delhi, the imperial capital.

Razia ruled until 1240 CE, asserting royal authority by appearing unveiled in court and leading armies. Her reign faced constant resistance from Turkish nobles (Chahalgani). She married Malik Ikhtiyar ud-Din Altunia; they had no known children. Razia was defeated near Kaithal and was killed in 1240 CE. Her tomb lies in Delhi.

Her coinage is historically remarkable—combining Persian and Nagari legends, reflecting political legitimacy. This rare jital bears natural green patina, formed through centuries of weathering, symbolizing the long historical journey of the coin and enhancing its authentic medieval character.