India, British › Bengal Presidency 1 Pice - Shah Alam II Rare Coin

Description

Issuer	Bengal Presidency (British India)
Type	Standard circulation coins
Years	1796-1809
Value	1 Paisa (1⁄64)
Currency	Rupee (1765-1835)
Composition	Copper
Weight	8.3 g
Diameter	28.2 mm
Thickness	1.8 mm
Shape	Round
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	Yes

 

This is an exceptionally rare 1 Pice copper coin from the Bengal Presidency, minted during the reign of Shah Alam II between 1796-1809. The Bengal Presidency, under British India's administration, issued this standard circulation coin as part of the Rupee currency system, where one Pice equaled 1/64th of a Rupee. Crafted from pure copper, this historically significant numismatic piece weighs 8.3 grams with a diameter of 28.2mm, showcasing the craftsmanship of early 19th-century Indian coinage. The coin features medal alignment and displays the characteristics typical of the Shah Alam II coinage period—a transformative era when British colonial influence began reshaping Indian monetary systems. What makes this coin particularly desirable for collectors is its dual historical importance: it represents both the twilight of the Mughal Empire under Shah Alam II and the nascent British colonial period in India. As a demonetized coin, it now exists purely as a historical artifact and collectible piece. Its rarity, age, and the convergence of Indian and British numismatic traditions make it an outstanding investment for serious numismatists and history enthusiasts seeking authentic pieces of South Asian colonial heritage. #