Bahawalpur State Copper Paisa (Square Coin) Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi Era Rare Coin

Bahawalpur Princely State, Ruler: Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V, Reign: 1907–1966 CE, Denomination: Paisa, Composition: Copper, Weight: 2.37 grams, Diameter: 15.50 × 15 mm (square), Date: AH 1343, Reference: Y#8 (South Asian Coins, p. 249), About Very Fine, + Scarce.

Obverse: Square flan with Persian/Urdu legends naming the state and ruler, traditional Islamic calligraphy within a simple border.

Reverse: Denomination “Paisa” with Hijri date AH 1343, balanced square layout, minimal ornamentation.

During the reign of Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan V, Bahawalpur emerged as one of the most progressive princely states of the region. The state maintained its own distinct coinage system, often characterized by unusual shapes such as square copper paisa coins. These issues were intended for local circulation and everyday transactions, combining practicality with a strong regional identity. The AH 1343 square paisa belongs to this phase of administrative stability and modernization, when Bahawalpur balanced traditional Islamic symbolism with efficient fiscal management.