Aurangzeb's Half Rupee (pierced)
17th century ・ silver ・ 17th century ・ Mughal Empire
A silver half rupee of Aurangzeb. The source classification includes the entry "Perforated Islamic Coinage". There is a hole in the face of the coin. This hole was made to pass a string through, so it could be worn as a necklace or ornament. A considerable amount of the silver that flowed into the subcontinent thus ceased to be currency and became personal adornment. The moment the hole was pierced, this silver was withdrawn from circulation. Metal that stays at home, and metal that circulates in the market. The same piece of silver moves to a different sphere with just one hole.