Note: Coins of this type are often referred to as Morashahi, owing to the reverse symbol’s resemblance to a peacock’s tail. However, they are more accurately termed Bershahi, named for their similarity to a sprig of Ber (Zizyphus jujuba). This particular specimen is distinguished by two additional leaves below the sprig. The series is known in two varieties -with & without the fish symbol; this coin bears the fish symbol.

In Vikram Samvat 1861, the earlier leaf motif was replaced by the sprig design, which was long mistaken for a peacock’s tail. This misinterpretation gave rise to the “Morashahi” designation, thought to reference “Moran,” a courtesan. However, an article in the Journal of the Oriental Numismatic Society. later clarified that the emblem represents a Ber sprig. Accordingly, the correct term “Ber Shahi” is now applied to coins of this type, which likely entered circulation around VS 1862.

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