The Institutes of Akbar 23.2

23.2

Unprincipled men cause a great deal of mischief by rubbing down the coins, or by employing similar methods; and in consequence of the damage done to the nation at large, his Majesty continually consults experienced men, and from his knowledge of the spirit of the age, issues new regulations, in order to prevent such detrimental practices. The currency underwent several changes. First, when (in the 27th year) the reins of the government were in the hands of Rajah Todarmal, four kinds of muhurs were allowed to be current: A. There was a La’l Jali, which had the name of his Majesty stamped on it, and weighed 1 tolah, 13 surkhs. It was quite pure, and had a value of 400 dams. Again, there existed from the beginning of this glorious reign, a muhur with the imperial stamp, of which three degrees passed as current, viz., B. This muhur, when perfectly pure, and having the full weight of 11 mashahs. Its value was 360 dams. If from wear and tear it had lost in weight within three grains of rice, it was still allowed to be of the same degree, and no difference was made. C. The same muhur, when it had lost in weight from four to six rice grains; its value was 355 dams. D. The same; muhur when it had lost in weight from six to nine rice grains; its value was 350 dáms. Muhurs of less weight than this were considered as bullion.