
Horseman left, holding standard, Sri Hamira ("Amir") in Nagari / Bull standing left, Arabic number "1" and a trident on the bull, Suritana Sri Samasadina ("Sultan Shams ud-din") in Nagari around. 15mm, 3.23 grams. Mint of Delhi. "The Coins of the Indian Sultanates" D-45; Tye 386.3.
The number "1" was either the workshop designation or the regnal year.
Iltutmish (r. 1211–1236 CE) was the third ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and its true consolidator, establishing it as a stable and enduring power in northern India. A former Turkic slave who rose through the ranks under Qutb al-Din Aibak, Iltutmish overcame internal rivals and external threats—including challenges from rival Mamluk factions and Rajput resistance—to firmly establish the Mamluk (Slave) dynasty. He is credited with organizing a centralized administration, introducing a silver currency standard (the tanka), and securing Caliphal recognition from Baghdad, which legitimized his rule. Iltutmish also completed major works in Delhi, including additions to the Qutb Minar, and laid the groundwork for succession by nominating his capable daughter, Razia Sultana, as his heir. His reign marked the real foundation of Muslim rule in India with enduring political and cultural impact.