Coins: Old: Ratlam State

A beautiful and carefully preserved set of coins! These coins from Ratlam State and Ratlam Region are rich in history and iconography.

1. Ratlam Region Paisa (AH) – Various Symbols

These coins are likely from the 18th to early 19th century, with Islamic Hijri (AH) dating. Ratlam was a princely state under the British Raj, and its currency often featured Persian or Devanagari inscriptions, along with regional motifs.

The symbols (like floral patterns, abstract shapes, and dotted circles) are typical countermarks or mint marks.
Each coin bears a unique countermark, possibly denoting different issues or years.

🪙 2. Ratlam State Paisa – Ruler: Ranjit Singh (VS 1945–47)

These coins are from the later period of Ratlam State:

VS 1945 & 1947 = AD 1888 and 1890 (approx.).
Clearly marked “Mint: Ratlam”.
Coins feature Hanuman, depicted either standing or seated, sometimes holding a gada (mace) – a powerful icon of devotion and strength.
This iconography ties to the religious beliefs of the ruling class or the populace.

🪙 3. Special Mentions

“Lion facing left” coin with round countermark: This is notable. Lion imagery often symbolized power or British influence in some princely issues.
“Rayil Currency” (Railway Currency?) under PARDAM SINGH and R.Y. 25: Likely a local fiscal token used for limited trade or rail-related payments within the Ratlam region.

📌 Observations:

These are mostly copper paisa coins.
AH and VS dating systems are used: AH (Islamic) and VS (Vikram Samvat – Hindu calendar).
Some coins might be machine struck, while others appear to be hand struck, indicating a transition period.