Assam (SE 1673-1691) 1/2 rupee

Assam (Ahom Kingdom) began striking coins based on the rupee system in the 1600's. The design elements were borrowed from nearby Cooch Behar, but the octagonal shape was an invention of the Assamese. The Ahom script was used up through the reign of Gadadhara Simha, after which Sanskrit was used for most issues. Saka Era (SE) dates are 78 years earlier than current year dates in Western countries.

Shown is a half rupee From Pramatha Simha with inscription in Sanskrit. It is not dated.

Recorded mintage: unknown.

Specification: 5.35-5.80 g, silver.

Catalog reference: KM 133.

Source:

• Michael, Thomas, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1701-1800, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2016.
• Rhodes, N. G., and Bose, S. K. The Coinage of Assam - Volume II Ahom Period. Kolkata, India: A.O.P Pvt. Ltd., 2004.

Link to:

• SE 1672 ¼ rupee
• SE 1673-1691 1/8 rupee
• (1666-1673) half rupee
• SE 1672 1 rupee
• SE 1677 ¼ rupee
• SE 1683 1 rupee
• Assam (1769-80) 1/2 rupee KM-178
• Assam (1769-80) 1/2 rupee KM-179
• Coins and currency dated 1751
• return to coins of India, Assam