© Zanzi (CC BY-SA)
© Zanzi (CC BY-SA)
¼ Kupang - Srivijaya of Sumatra ND
| Gold (Potentially an electrum mixture) | 0.15 g | 5 mm |
| Issuer | Pre-Islamic kingdoms (Indonesia) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 680-1250 |
| Composition | Gold (Potentially an electrum mixture) |
| Weight | 0.15 g |
| Diameter | 5 mm |
| Thickness | 0.6 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#434744 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Nagari script 'Ma'.
Script: Devanagari
Translation: Massa
Comment
Gold currency was the massa of 2.4 grams = 4 Kupangs. The letter 'Ma' is used on all denominations, however, so this tiny 1/16 massa coin has 'Ma' on it
Generally attributed to the Srivijaya of Sumatra. This is one of the smallest circulating gold coins of ancient times. There exist larger sizes ½ kupang = 0.3g, 1 kupang = 0.6g, 1 atak = 1.2g, and 1 massa = 2.4g. Most finds of this type are from the Palembang area of the Musi River.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was potentially made of an electrum mixture, which is a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver. This suggests that the coin may have had a unique composition that set it apart from other coins of its time. Additionally, the fact that it was made of gold and silver, which were valuable materials in ancient times, highlights the importance of this coin as a medium of exchange and store of value.