Note: Humayun, after being ousted by Sher Shah Suri of the Delhi Sultanate, sought refuge at the Persian Shah's court in 950 AH (1543 AD). During his two-year exile, he sought Shah Tahmasp's support to reclaim his throne in India. In exchange for assistance, Humayun agreed to convert to the Shia sect of Islam and promised to cede Qandahar upon its conquest.

Upon the successful capture of Qandahar, tensions arose with the Persian garrison, leading Humayun to personally lead the expulsion of the Persians. Despite potential friction with Shah Tahmasp, Humayun appointed Behram Khan, a Shia general and future mentor to Akbar, as Governor of Qandahar. Diplomatic ambassadors were dispatched to reassure Shah Tahmasp of Behram Khan's loyalty, after dismissing the Shah's envoy, Bidagh Khan, for disobedience.

To strengthen the alliance, Humayun minted coins in Shah Tahmasp's name with Shia inscriptions. These coins, likely minted shortly after Qandahar's recapture in 1545 AD, were timed to coincide with the arrival of Humayun's envoys and letters to the Shah's court, anticipating the Shah's positive response.

The issuance of these coins served as a strategic diplomatic move by Humayun to secure Persian support in his quest to reclaim his Indian territories.

Only a few known examples exist of the joint issue of Humayun (in exile, 1540–1555 AD) and Tahmasp I Safavid of Iran, struck in Qandahar, in both Shahrukhis and Half Shahrukhis denominations.

The Half Shahrukhis are significantly rarer than the full units. In July 2024, a full Shahrukhi of this type sold for ₹5,60,000 in our auction. This offering marks the first time we present the exceedingly rare Half Shahrukhi of this issue. The coin’s minimal signs of wear enhance its allure, rarity, and historical significance.

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