Okay, so I'm completely out of my depth with this coin that I found in one of my mixed lots. I spent some time looking for it thinking it may be Indian, but came up empty-handed, so perhaps I'm just way off base. I'd be very interested to know where this coin is from, and what period (and if the reverse really is a smiley sun-face), so if you eastern coin guys have any ideas, I'd be very grateful. It weighs 5g and is 18.5mm. Thanks! Sorry, I'm not sure if the orientation I have in the photograph is even correct.
Not knowing much detail about it, I should think this is an Afghan Civic Copper, a locally produced coin from the 18th or 19th century. Although Islam forbids depicting objects, in the course of time there have been many exceptions to this rule, and the Afghan Civic Coppers form a particularly varied and interesting area. Animals are often depicted. There are many varieties and they are often in lesser condition - but still much sought after. Yours is certainly a desirable coin.
Amazing, thank you! I found a copy of Valentine's Modern Copper Coins of the Muhammadan States online and there it was under anonymous civic coinage of Herat. Thanks for chiming in too, @Topcat7.
Great! The year 1223 AH in the plate coin would be about 1808. Your year also starts with 12, so I would say that your coin dates from about 1800.
he, can i jump in here also for a similar favor? i also picked this up recently, and can't figure it out. i'm pretty sure it's an indian princly states coin. i'm not sure where, guess from the patterns (i can't read it), i would say kutch or nawanagar? maybe 18th century? am i close? sorry for pic, didn't want to invest to much into editing ..until i know which side is up. below is my guess. any ideas eastern guys? @THCoins @Pellinore @Ancientnoob
