India / Afghanistan – Ghaznavid Sultanate (AD 999–1030)
Silver Dirham – Ghazna Mint
TUB 155 – Ex. Robert Tye Collection
A historically important silver Dirham from the powerful Ghaznavid Sultanate, struck at the renowned mint of Ghazna (Ghazni) during the reign of Sultan Mahmud of Ghazna (AD 998–1030). Mahmud was one of the most influential rulers of the medieval Islamic world, transforming the Ghaznavid state into a major empire extending across present-day Afghanistan, eastern Iran, and northern India.
Ghaznavid coinage is notable for its combination of Islamic inscriptions and regional influences, reflecting the cultural crossroads of Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The silver Dirham was the principal currency of the Ghaznavid administration and circulated widely throughout the empire, facilitating trade across a vast territory connecting the Islamic world with South Asia.
The coin bears traditional Arabic legends featuring Islamic declarations and the ruler's titles, representing the authority and religious legitimacy of the Ghaznavid dynasty. Issues from the Ghazna mint are especially desirable due to the importance of the city as the political and cultural center of Mahmud's empire.
This example is referenced as TUB 155 and comes ex. Robert Tye Collection, adding notable provenance from the respected numismatist and collector specializing in Asian and Islamic coinage.
Dynasty: Ghaznavid Sultanate
Ruler: Sultan Mahmud (AD 998–1030)
Date: AD 999–1030
Mint: Ghazna (Ghazni)
Denomination: Silver Dirham
Reference: TUB 155
Metal: Silver
Provenance: Ex. Robert Tye Collection
A desirable medieval Islamic silver coin from one of the most influential dynasties of Central Asia and early medieval India, offering collectors a tangible connection to the rise of the Ghaznavid Empire.
