1 Kasu - Samarakolakalan (Banas of Madurai) ND (1469-1476) front 1 Kasu - Samarakolakalan (Banas of Madurai) ND (1469-1476) back
1 Kasu - Samarakolakalan (Banas of Madurai) ND (1469-1476) photo
© VJ

1 Kasu - Samarakolakalan Banas of Madurai ND

 
Copper 3.15 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Kingdom of Madurai (Indian Hindu Dynasties)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1469-1476
Value
1 Kasu (1⁄800)
Composition
Copper
Weight
3.15 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#284999
Rarity index
85%

Reverse

Title of the king "Samarakolakalan" in Tamil

Lettering: சமர கொலா கலன்

Translation: Samara / Kola / Kalan in Tamil within the lines

Comment

Banas controlled much of Madurai, Ramanathapuram and some parts of Kongu regions from 14th to middle of 16th century. Different varieties of the coin exist wherein the Garuda facing right, and the Tamil legend without lines.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was issued during the reign of King Sivakami, who was known for his military campaigns and cultural achievements. The coin features an image of the king on one side and a Hindu deity on the other, reflecting the religious and cultural influences of the time. Additionally, the coin's copper composition and relatively low weight suggest that it was intended for everyday use by the common people, rather than being a high-value coin reserved for the wealthy elite.