Madras Presidency (British East India Company), in the name of Mughal Emperor Alamgir II (1754–1759 CE)
⅛ Rupee – Open Lotus Type (AH 1172 / 1823 CE, Frozen RY 6)
Obverse: Persian legend 1172 Sikka Badshah Alamgir, all within a plain circle border.
Reverse: Persian inscription Zarb Arkat sanat 6 julus maimanat manus — “Struck at Arcot in the 6th year of tranquil prosperity”; Open Lotus mint mark above.
Metal: Silver
Weight: ~1.46 g
Diameter: ~13.5 mm
Mint: Arcot (Arkat), struck at the Calcutta Mint under frozen date.
Date: AH 1172 (frozen) = Struck c. 1823 CE
References: KM# 424; Pr# 266
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? Numismatic Notes
The Open Lotus type is usually paired with its Closed Lotus counterpart for a complete study of fractional issues under Madras Presidency.
These coins were struck decades after Alamgir II’s actual reign, reflecting how the East India Company retained Mughal legitimacy while issuing their own currency.
The frozen date AH 1172 / RY 6 is consistent across both types, making the mint mark the main variety.
The Open Lotus punch is a distinct floral symbol with petals spread, unlike the Closed Lotus where the petals remain clustered.
