Awadh State Nawab Saadat Ali Khan Silver Rupee Coin of Kora Mint

Princely State of Awadh, Nawab Saadat Ali Khan, INO Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah, Coin Issue Year: (AH 1143–1144 / 1731 CE), Denomination: AR Rupee, Composition: Silver, Kora mint (Awadh region), Regnal Year: RY 13, Weight: 11.16 grams, Diameter: 23 mm, Reference: KM# 436.39, About Very Fine, Scarce.

Obverse: “Sikka Mubarak Badshah Ghazi Muhammad Shah”.

Reverse: “Zarb Kora” with Regnal Year 13.

Saadat Ali Khan I was the first Nawab and founder of the Awadh (Oudh) state, establishing one of the most powerful regional kingdoms in northern India during the early 18th century. Originally appointed as the Subahdar (governor) of Awadh by the Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah, he gradually consolidated his authority and laid the foundations of an autonomous state while still acknowledging Mughal sovereignty.

During his rule, Awadh emerged as an important political and economic center in northern India. Coins issued in his administration were struck in the name of the Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah, reflecting the traditional Mughal monetary system while the real administrative power rested with the Nawab. Important mints in the Awadh region included Kora, which produced silver rupees used widely in regional trade.

This silver rupee struck at Kora mint with Regnal Year 13 represents the transitional political phase of the declining Mughal Empire, when powerful provincial governors like the Nawabs of Awadh exercised increasing independence while continuing to issue coins in the Mughal emperor’s name. Such coins are historically significant pieces from the early formation of the Awadh Kingdom.