Mughal Emperor Jalal ud-Din Muhammad Akbar Silver Rupee Lahore mint Year 985 AH

Mughal Empire, Jalal ud-Din Muhammad Akbar, Reign: 1556–1605 CE, Years of Minting: AH 985 (1577–78 CE), Denomination: Square Rupee, Metal: Silver, Weight: 11.26 grams, Diameter: 21 × 21 mm, Mint: Lahore, Reference: KM# 82, Superb Extremely Fine, Scarce.

Obverse: Kalima and names of the first four Caliphs within a square border.

Reverse: Name and titles of Akbar with mint name Lahore and date AH 985.

Issued during the reign of Emperor Akbar, this square silver rupee represents one of the most distinctive and innovative coin types of the Mughal Empire. Struck at the Lahore Mint in AH 985 (1577–78 CE), it belongs to a period when Akbar was consolidating his authority over northern India and implementing sweeping administrative, military, and monetary reforms. The introduction of a uniform silver rupee under Akbar brought stability to the empire’s currency system and facilitated trade across its vast territories. Square rupees, though less common than round issues, are highly admired for their unusual shape and elegant calligraphy. Lahore, one of the principal mints of the empire, produced coins that circulated extensively along important commercial routes connecting Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The artistic quality and precise weight standard established under Akbar laid the foundation for Mughal coinage for generations to come. Today, Akbar’s Lahore square rupees are prized by collectors for their historical significance, distinctive fabric, and association with one of India’s greatest emperors.

Coinage Note: Akbar’s monetary reforms standardized the silver rupee at approximately 11.4 grams, creating a stable currency system that remained influential for centuries. Square rupees, known for their striking appearance and fine calligraphy, are among the most sought-after issues of Mughal numismatics.