Gond kingdom of Garha Mandla, Madhukar Shah, Copper 1/2 Square Paisa, VS 1664, Obv: a lion facing right, Devanagari legend “Shri Madhu(kara)…” around, date 1664 below, Rev: Devanagari legend “…Shri Madhuka / ra Sahi”, 4.80g, 14.3x13.8mm, (Unlisted in KM), choice extremely fine, Extremely rare.

Note: The Gond kingdom was defeated by Akbar in 1564 after a heroic battle at Chauragarh where Rani Durgavati laid down her life. Her kingdom passed hands to Chand Shah, who was recognized by Akbar as the ruler of Garhaand his vassal. He was subsequently murdered by his younger brother, Madhukar Shah,who then assumed the throne. The date on the coin corresponds closely to Akbar's death and it is possible that Madhukar Shah denied Mughal authority for a short time by striking coins in his own name. These coins are extremely rare with less than five specimens being known to exist.

Estimate: INR 100000 - 125000