INZ Journal

 Firoz Shah Tughlaq was one of the prominent rulers of the Tughlaq dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. He was born in 1309 CE and was the cousin of Muhammad bin Tughlaq. After the death of Muhammad bin Tughlaq in 1351 CE, Firoz Shah ascended the throne and ruled until 1388 CE.   His accession came at a time when the Delhi Sultanate was facing political instability and economic challenges due to the ambitious but often unsuccessful policies of his predecessor. Unlike Muhammad bin Tughlaq, Firoz Shah adopted a more cautious and pragmatic approach to governance. His rule is often remembered for its emphasis on administrative stability, infrastructure development, and welfare measures.  Administrative Reforms Firoz Shah Tughlaq introduced several administrative reforms aimed at stabilizing the empire. He reduced harsh taxation policies that had caused distress among farmers and the general population during the previous reign. He also reorganized the revenue system to ma...

Introduction The Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526 CE) marked a transformative era in Indian monetary history. By the 14th century, the Sultanate had established a structured monetary economy that reshaped trade, taxation, and social life. Coins issued during this period were not merely instruments of commerce; they were symbols of sovereignty, religion, and artistic expression. Each ruling dynasty contributed to the evolution of coinage, leaving behind a rich numismatic legacy that reflected both political authority and cultural synthesis. Early Coinage: Muhammad Ghori and the Slave Dynasty The foundations of Sultanate Coinage were laid by Muhammad Ghori (Muhammad bin Sam). After consolidating power in India, he issued billon coins of the “bull-horseman” type, featuring a bull on one side and a horseman on the other, with Nagari inscriptions such as Sri Mahamad Sam. Ghori also minted gold coins imitating local designs, placing the seated goddess Lakshmi on the obverse and inscribing h...