Hyderabad Coins
The Princely State of Hyderabad was one of the most important and wealthiest in British India, ruled by the Nizams from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Its monetary system and coinage reflected the greatness and autonomy of the state, and is a fascinating testimony to its history and culture.
History and government of Hyderabad
Founded in 1724 by Asaf Jah I, Hyderabad State became a powerful kingdom under the rule of the Nizams. It maintained considerable autonomy during the period of the British Raj, negotiating favorable treaties with the East India Company and later with the British Crown. The state's wealth came from its vast natural resources, including diamond mines, and its strategic position on the Deccan. The Nizams were known for their opulence, exemplified by the famous Falaknuma Palace and the crown jewels of Hyderabad. This prosperity and autonomy was reflected in their monetary system, which maintained unique characteristics until the integration of Hyderabad into independent India in 1948.
Monetary system and currencies of Hyderabad
The monetary system of Hyderabad was distinctive, using the Hyderabad rupee as the main currency. These coins, known as "Hali Sicca", were minted at the Hyderabad mint and featured inscriptions in Urdu, reflecting the state's Indo-Islamic cultural heritage. The gold coins, called Ashrafi or Mohur, were particularly prized and often featured the state emblem or the name of the reigning Nizam. A unique feature was the minting of square coins, a tradition dating back to Mughal times. During the reign of the last Nizam, Osman Ali Khan, commemorative coins celebrating important milestones of the state were introduced. The quality and design of these coins were exceptional, using advanced minting techniques. Even after India's independence, Hyderabad continued to mint its own coins until 1951, marking the end of a unique numismatic era in Indian history.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable Hyderabad coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Ancient coins of India-Princely States
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of India-Princely States.
Bhopal Bikaner Bahawalpur Baroda Gwalior Hyderabad Indore Jaipur Jodhpur Junagadh Kutch Mewar Nawanagar Pudukkottai Ratlam Tonk TravancoreCoin Catalog
1 paisa (Hyderabad-Elichpur)
2 pai (Hyderabad)
2 pie (Hyderabad)
1 trambiyo (Kutch)
1/2 anna (Hyderabad)
1 anna (Hyderabad)
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of India-Princely States
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