The Mughal Empire’s military might was accompanied by its rich resources, innovation and influence, and the subsequent wealth saw the creation of numerous masterpieces of jewellery, art, architecture and coinage. Ema Sikic, World Coins Specialist at A. H. Baldwin’s & Sons, provides an introductory guide
From 16th to the 18th century the Mughal Empire commanded impressive wealth and resources on the Indian subcontinent, almost unprecedented in their grandeur. Growing European presence and its increasing demand for raw and finished products of the Indian subcontinent created great wealth in the Mughal courts. The Mughal elite provided patronage of painting, literature, and architecture, especially during the reign of Shah Jahan. Mughals created numerous masterpieces of jewellery, painting and architectural wonders such as Agra Fort, Red Fort, Shalamar Gardens and the Taj Mahal.
The opulence of Mughal Empire made news in October 2021 when Sotheby’s presented a pair of spectacles, with emerald lenses surrounded by diamond frames, that belonged to Emperor Shah Jahan. Representing the height of innovation, craftsmanship and luxury of the Great Mughal era, it comes as no surprise that they were estimated at £1.5-2.5 million.
During the rule of Shah Jahan, the Mughal Empire was at the height of its power, the economy developed, the treasury was full, and the art and architecture reached its peak. We will explore who were the most famous Mughal rulers and how the economic prosperity and art reflected on their coinage.
Creating the Mughal Empire – Akbar the Great
The founding date of the Mughal Empire is considered to be 1526 AD. The founder was Ẓahir al-Din Muḥammad Babur, a warrior chieftain descended from famous conquerors Genghis Khan and Timur. He held a fief in Turkmen Ferghana which was a part of the Timurid Empire, yet he had ambitions to conquer and expand further. He launched an attack on Kabul in 1504 and subsequently decided to take on the Sultans of Delhi in northern India. He was aided by the neighbouring Safavid and Ottoman Empires to defeat the Sultan of Delhi and establish the Mughal dynasty.
In 1526, after a battle at Panipat, he defeated Ibrahim Lodhi, the Sultan of Delhi. He died soon after in 1530. After his death, his son Humayun could not keep a hold of these territories and was forced to retreat. In the twenty years that followed, Humayun rebuilt his forces and was ready to launch an offensive to expand the Mughal
