A rupee for pomp and circumstance. Rupees for nazar or ritualised gifting were struck on specially prepared wide flans and carried full-die impressions. Originating in the Mughal court, where attendees greeted the emperor with money as a ceremonial token, this practice was carried with greater gusto by the Rajputs. Presentation or ‘Nazarana’ rupees were also… Read more »
Understanding the politics of 19th-century Mewar through a rare coin die
For numismatists or coin collectors on a budget, commemorative coins are a great way to get started. Here’s what makes them special
Nazrana were limited-edition novelties minted not as currency, but as gifts to a superior or souvenirs to mark special occasions. A Nazarana was crafted simply to be presented with all the pomp and circumstance at the giver’s disposal. This is a silver one minted in the name of Queen Victoria by Madan Singh; coins like… Read more »
This silver coin seems to have been struck on an existing Nazarana coin. The word Nazarana is derived from the Persian ‘nazr’ and means a presentation or tribute. On special occasions, Nazaranas or Nazars were presented to the king. People would order and buy these coins from the mint when they wanted to make a… Read more »