Akbar, AV Mohur, Agra, IE 49, Amardad, 'Mihrabi' type
The "Mehrabi" refers to the shape of the frame on several of Akbar's gold coins, as well as the lozenge-shaped flan on some exceptionally rare mohurs. It reflects the design of the typical mehrab or niche in the wall of a mosque that indicates the direction of prayer towards Mecca. The Mehrabi held an important place in the imagery of the Mughal court, and is specifically mentioned in the court chronicles Ain-e-Akbari by the emperor's secretary Abu l-Fadl 'Allami. Although Akbar presented a moderate program for governing his vast and diverse empire, he was first and foremost a proponent of Islam, and glorified the tenets of that religion in his works and deeds. The special mehrabi-shaped coins are amongst the greatest rarities of Mughal and Indian Numismatics, and were probably struck by Akbar to be presented to courtiers on special occasions.