Baroda State 1 Pai Sayaji Rao III Gaekwad of Baroda Copper Coin

Princely State of Baroda, Maharaja Sayaji Rao III, Gaekwad Dynasty, Denomination: 1 Pai, Composition: Copper, Weight: 1.92 grams, Diameter: 19 mm, Date: VS 1950 (1893 CE), Reference: Y# 30, Grade: Extremely Fine, Collectable.

Obverse: Devanagari legend “Shri Gaekwad, Baroda Sarkar” within a beaded circle, featuring a hoof and scimitar below.

Reverse: Devanagari inscription “Savat Ek Pai” within a beaded circle, with the date VS 1950 below, surrounded by a decorative wreath.

The Gaekwad dynasty ruled the princely state of Baroda in western India and became one of the prominent Maratha ruling houses during the eighteenth century. The dynasty rose to power under Pilaji Rao Gaekwad and later expanded its influence under successive rulers. Baroda developed as an important administrative and commercial centre under Gaekwad rule. The state maintained its own currency system, reflecting its political identity and regional traditions. Its coinage used Devanagari inscriptions and distinctive local symbols, while denominations such as the Pai facilitated everyday transactions within the princely state.

Coinage Note: This copper 1 Pai coin of Sayaji Rao III, belongs to the currency system of the Princely State of Baroda and is dated Vikram Samvat 1950, corresponding to 1893 CE. The Devanagari legends identify the Gaekwad authority and denomination, while the beaded borders and floral wreath provide distinctive decorative features. As a low-denomination copper issue, it represents the small-change currency used in local commerce during the late nineteenth century.