2017-05-12 Fri

This Gold Mohur was issued during the reign of Sayaji Rao III of Baroda. This Maratha state is located in western India. The line of its ruling family of ‘Gaikwara’ are the decedents of Damaji ( Maratha soldier). He received the title of ‘Distinguish swordsman’ in 1721. The Gaikwara family rose to power in the 18th century by carving out their territory from the hold of the Marathas of Poona.

The coins of Baroda depict a scimitar because of the title given to Damaji. One of the best examples of this is the above shown Mohur minted in 1959 VS. The obverse depicts the bust of King Sayaji Rao III and divided legend in devanagri scprit ‘ Shri sayaji rao ma Gakwad’ within the dotted circle. The reverse of this coin depicts scimitar and date and mint name and denomination ‘ Vadodey Ake Mohur’ above it within the wreath.

Later on the British supported the Gaikwara and for almost the next century and a half Baroda had peaceful relations with the British government till 1947. After independence this state acceded to the Indian Union.

To know more about princely state Click here.

Some Interesting facts: The Baroda title ‘Gaikwara’ comes from ‘gaikwar’ or cow herd, it was also Damaji’s father occupation.

P.S: Image courtesy of Classical Numismatic Gallery, this coins is very rare and Extremely fine and it was sold for INR 3,90,000.