© Sujit
© Sujit
½ Karshapana - Kuru Janapada 450 BC - 350 BC
| Silver | 1.46 g | 15 mm |
| Issuer | Kuru Kingdom (Janapadas (pre-Mauryan)) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 450 BC - 350 BC |
| Value | ½ Karshapana |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.46 g |
| Diameter | 15 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#67294 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
(Magadhan?) 6-arm symbol
Edge
Plain
Comment
Rajgor has suggested that this coin is an overstrike "on an earlier type having a Six-armed-like symbol." However, on this specimen, if there is any flattening, it is on the "obverse" side with the triskele design. This might suggest that the six-arm symbol was either added later or simultaneous to the triskele. Perhaps this was issued shortly after Mahapadma Nanda annexed the Kuru lands to Magadha. (Ref: Rajgor 428, MATEC 3702)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Karshapana coin from Kuru Janapada is that it features a unique combination of symbols and scripts. On one side, it has a depiction of a bull, which was a common motif in ancient Indian coinage, and on the other side, it has an inscription in the Brahmi script, which was the earliest form of writing in ancient India. This combination of symbols and scripts suggests that the coin was used for both practical transactions and as a symbol of the kingdom's cultural and religious values.