Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj – Maratha Kingdom Copper Sajgani (Shivrai) Coin – Rare Three-Line Inscription Variety

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630–1680 CE) established the foundations of the Maratha Kingdom and was formally crowned at Raigad in 1674 CE. He developed an efficient administrative system, strengthened his forts, and built a powerful military and naval force. His campaigns brought large territories under Maratha control, while his administration emphasized organized revenue collection and local governance. Shivaji maintained a network of strategically important forts across the Deccan and promoted a distinctive political identity for his kingdom. His coinage, bearing legends in the Nagari script rather than the Persian language commonly used on contemporary Indian coinage, reflected the sovereignty and independent identity of the Maratha state.

Coinage Note: This copper Sajgani / Shivrai Paisa is regarded as a characteristic early coin of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is often described as a lifetime issue. The obverse carries “Shri Raja Shiva”, while the reverse reads “Chhatra Pati”, both in Nagari script. The coin weighs approximately 7.64 grams and is recorded under KM#41. Its distinctive legends and dotted borders make it an important example of early Maratha coinage.