1 Drachm - Visvasimha
| Silver | 2.33 g | 14.98 mm |
| Issuer | Western Satraps (Indo-Scythian Kingdom) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 275-280 |
| Value | 1 Drachm |
| Currency | Drachm (35-405) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.33 g |
| Diameter | 14.98 mm |
| Thickness | 1.74 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#427699 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Chaitya (3-arched hill), river below, crescent moon and sun above, Brahmi legend around
Script: Brahmi
Lettering: rajno mahakshatrapasa rudrasenaputrasa rajno mahakshatrapasa visvasihasa
Comment
Visvasimha was the first of two sons of Rudrasena II who came to the throne. He started to issue coins as kshatrapa in the year SE 197, while his father was still in power, and continued doing so until 202, the last year for which we have dated coins for Visvasimha as kshatrapa. Rudrasena II had apparently died in 200. Visvasena also issued coins as mahakshatrapa, but no one has yet been able to read a date on any of these. All of his coins are scarce, the mahakshatrapa coins are rare.
Most authors assume that Visvasimha was his father's heir apparent. However, especially considering the rarity of his coins, the possibility that he was a rebel against his father cannot be ruled out.
info credit Coinindia)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Indian influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts a portrait of King Visvasimha, while the reverse side features a representation of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, highlighting the cultural exchange and syncretism that occurred during the Indo-Scythian period.
