Shivaji I (Shivaji Shahaji Bhonsale/Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) Maratha Empire, (r. 1664-1680 AD), Composition: Copper, Denomination: Shivrai/1 Paisa, Weight 8.26 grm, Diameter: 18.92 mm, Reference: KM# 267, about fine, scarce.

Obverse: Script in Devanagari

Lettering:

श्री

राजा

शिव

Translation:

shri

raja

shiv

Reverse: Script in Devanagari

Lettering:

छत्र

पति

Translation:

chhatra

pati

During the reign of Shivaji I (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, r. 1664–1680 AD), the Maratha Empire introduced its own coinage system to promote trade and independence from Mughal control. Shivaji issued gold (hon/hun) and copper (paisa or shivrai) coins bearing Devanagari inscriptions — “श्री राजा शिव” (Shri Raja Shiv) on the obverse and “छत्र पति” (Chhatra Pati) on the reverse. These coins symbolized his royal authority and were circulated mainly for local and regional commerce. Important mints were established at Raigad Fort, Panhala, Gingee, and Nagpur, along with other forts under Maratha control. Before Shivaji’s rise, his father Shahaji Bhonsale had served as a military officer in the Mughal court. Shivaji’s independent coinage marked the foundation of an autonomous Maratha economy and political identity.

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