Lot 555

Independent Kingdoms, Maratha Confedercy, Govind Ballal Kher (1761-1795 AD), INO Shah Alam II (AH 1174-1221, 1759-1806 AD), Silver Rupee, 11.29 gms, 24.82 mm, Itawa Mint (fully visible at bottom on rev), AH 1174, RY Ahd, Obv: sikka mubarak badshah ghazi Shah Alam & Trishul, Rev: sanah ahad julus manus maimanat zarb Itawa at bottom, Unlisted in major catalogue, Govind Ballal Kher who was historically also known as "Govind Pant Bundela" was a military general of Peshwas in Northern India during the years 1733-1761 AD. During the 3rd Battle of Panipat in the year 1761 AD fought between the Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali and the Marathas under the supremacy of Sadashiv Rao Bhau Peshwa of Pune, Bhau provoked Govind to attack Abdali from rear. It would have had the double effect of harassing Abdali. The attack by Govind Pant was brave, although rather futile. At the beginning of the battle the Marthas pushed back the Rohillas who were on the Afghan side but towards the end of the battle, the tide turned against the Marathas and by the end of the day they were killed. The brave Bundela died fighting against a more powerful enemy. During the decline of the Mughal power, Itawa was the base of Govind Ballal at that time and after he was martyred in the war, coins were struck in the name of Shah Alam II by replacing the "Trishul" with "Sword" and some other mint marks, very fine+, rare.