Gadhaiya Paisa Maheswari type Paramaras of Malwa 1 Drachm Medieval India Coin

Obverse: Stylized head of Khushrau, surrounded by decorative pellets and ornamental elements. The Gadhaiya (Gadhiya) Paisa type originated from Indo-Sassanian coinage and continued to be issued by various successor dynasties across western and central India.

Reverse: Stylized fire altar or sacrificial table surrounded by rows of pellets and abstract decorative motifs.

The Gadhaiya Paisa is one of the most distinctive and long-lived coin types of medieval India. Originally derived from Indo-Sassanian prototypes, this coinage continued to be produced for several centuries across western and central India. The type was issued in regions associated with the Chaulukyas and later continued under several dynasties, including the Paramaras of Malwa, Gujarat rulers, Khandesh, Bahmani, Salankis and Yadavas. The highly stylized portrait and fire-altar designs became characteristic features of this important medieval Indian silver coinage tradition.

Coinage Note: The Gadhaiya Paisa of the Paramara of Malwa represents the continuation of an established Indo-Sassanian-inspired monetary tradition. With a weight of approximately 4 grams and a diameter of 14 mm, it corresponds broadly to the traditional 1 drachm denomination. The stylized head on the obverse and fire-altar design on the reverse, surrounded by distinctive pellet decoration, make this type an important and recognizable example of medieval Indian coinage.