1 Sel

Manipur's coinage tradition predates British annexation in 1891 by centuries, with the sel serving as the smallest unit in a local system largely insulated from Mughal and later colonial monetary influence. Bell metal — a high-tin bronze alloy more commonly cast into temple bells and ceremonial vessels — was the material of choice for these diminutive pieces, a reflection of the metallurgical traditions of the Meitei craftsmen rather than any minting convention imported from outside the valley.