Post Gupta Indian Coinage
Coinage of Medieval India (North)
After the Gupta Rule, the Indian political scenario went into turmoil for many years. Many small principalities declared themselves independent and began to vouch for supremacy over each other with continuous invasions from foreign powers such as Hunas from north. This period continued for around 150 years, until these multiple small kingdoms assimilated into some large regional powers.
We have extremely rare specimen of Gold, Silver and Copper coins after the Imperial Guptas and before the advent of Muslim rule in India in 12th century. These are not many in numbers, also there is no continuity of particular coin type since the dynastic rule changed frequently and the rulers were often limited to the small regions. The period is marked with confusions and an indication of the collapse of coinage system as well as the long distance trade.
Some primary observations are :
1. Not all the kingdoms into which Gupta Empire disintegrated issued coins.
2. Even if any small kingdom issued coins, not all the kings of the particular dynasty had issued their own currency.
3. Magnificence of the coin design, their manufacturing process and metal quality all degraded from the predecessors, the innovation in coinage halted abruptly during this period.
4. Different Metals were used at different part of the Indian subcontinent.
5. Even if the metal was same, the fabric, quality and content were all different indicating influences from different sources.
The Gupta coinage continued to influence Eastern regions such as Bengal and Bihar for quite some time even during the Post Gupta period. Many crude and debased imitation of Gupta coinage are still seen upto the period of Goudas in Bengal. (upto 8th century). This region is specially known for the issuance of Gold coins in post Gupta period.
In Some places especially Uttar Pradesh, silver coinage type of Gupta continued well upto the period of Vardhanas and Maukharis of Kannauj.
While North-western and central region was heavily influenced by the new coinage type brought by the invading Hunas with them. This new coin design was in-turn borrowed from the Sassanid coinage and hence called as, Indo-Sassanian type. We see a lot of coins of this design based on contemporary Sassanian coins in circulation around Western India, Gujarat, Rajsthan, Punjab and the parts of Central India.
The Indo-Sassanian coins follow the weight standard of 67 grains and are named as Drammas. In their early stage these Indian version preserved thin flat fabric as of Sassanian coins but gradually they grew thicker and thicker and also shrank in size. Ultimately became dumpy and appeared like pellets and became popular as "Gadhaiya coins". The original motif of bust of Sassanian king and Fire altar also degraded. Earliest prototypes are mostly found from Rajsthan and Gujarat
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| Gadhaiya Type coins were popular in Gujarat, Rajasthan |
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| Gadhaiya coins from Rajasthan |
Gold Coin
Debased Gold Coins
Silvery Gold Coins
Silver Coins
Billon : - Silver Copper coins
Copper Coins
Gurjara Pratihara Coinage :
There seems to be no Gold coin issued by the Gurjara-Pratiharas kings. John Deyell in his observation on Pratihara coins concludes that the evidences support existence of well-regulated currency in the Gurjara state. Their early coins have similarity with the early Indo-Sassanian coin types but gradually developed their own coin fabrics. The monetary system was rational and maintained a standard coinage metrology throughout the empire, although the percentages of Silver in the coins decreased over the period of time.
The vassal states under Gurjara-Pratiharas in the periphery region were permitted to produce their own coinage, generally related but of a different exchange value to the imperial Gurjara money.
As per the estimation from total hoards found from Uttar Pradesh, Deyell concludes the circulation of Gurjara Pratihara coins was probably higher than that of the Gupta and Rajput era. and Hence, there was no shortage of currency in Gurjara-Pratihara empire during 8-10th century.
Few of the Pratihara coin types are well known to us :
1.
1. Pratihara Vatsaraja Coin (778-788 CE) :
These are tiny silver coins weighing 6-7 gms, originated in 8th century in Central and western India.
Obverse : Elephant walking to right on the
Reverse : Inscription “Rana-hasti” in proto Nagari script.
2. Vigrahapala Dramma Coin (780-830 CE) Also Vigrahapala Satka Drammai
In many epigrahic record we come to know about this type of coin in circulation. The coin was made of silver-copper alloy (Billan) and was based on Indo-Sassanian design. The coin average Weight : 3.81 Gram and Silver content in the coin was around 48% ~ 1.83 gram.
Obverse : A crude head in right profile with the late Brahmi or proto Devnagari legend "Shri Vigra".
Reverse : A portion of a fire Altar flanked
by attendants, with legend Devnagari "Sa" or "Ma"
The Pratiharas - Sri Vigrahapala - (778 - 883 CE), Silver Dramma, Weight: 3.8 gm, Diameter: 16.12 mm
Obverse: Stylised bust to right, with chevron-shaped crown, a diamond type motif is added above the headdress. Nagari legend "Sri Vigra" is in two lines, Dotted border
Reverse: The Fire altar has a solid base; the flames are made up of dots with horizontal lines; letter Ma replaces the altar stand. Two attendants flank the altar; Dotted border
3. Adivaraha Dramma Coin (836-913 CE)
The coin is also found mention in the Siyadoni inscription as one of the popular coin. This coin was made of Silver–Copper Alloy (Billan), The coin type is also inspired by Indo-Sassanian designs and a rightful successor of the Vigrahapala Drammas. Weight of the specimen is around 3.8 ~ 4 Gram. Silver content is around 36 % ~ 1.38 Gram.
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| Obv: King MihirBhoja as Varaha standing triumphant right, foot resting on lion below, various vaishnavite symbols at right. Rev: Two-line legend: srimad adi / varaha |
Obverse : Depiction of Boar Incarnation (AdiVaraha form) trampling human figure.
Reverse : Pictorial elements with proto Devanagari inscription "Shrimad Adivaraha"
Srimad Adivaraha is an epithet of the Pratihara King MihirBhoja – I
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| Aadi Varaha Coin of Mihir Bhoja - I (Notice Chakra Disc and Vana Mala) |
4. Vinayakapala Dramma (913-33 CE)
Vinayakapala also issued coins similar to the Adivaraha type. These are smaller and crude than the actual Adivaraha type. The mean weight of the specimen is around 3.78 gram and the percentage of silver in the coin alloy also decreased (.88 gram).
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| Vinayakapala, 912-944 AD, Drachm, silver, weight 3.5 g Obverse: Varaha (Boar incarnation of God Vishnu), to right Reverse: Legend in three lines ''srimad vinayaka deva'' |
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| Vinayakapala, Drachm, 912-944 AD, silver, weight 3.8 g Obverse: Stylized boar (Varaha) standing right Reverse: Three-line Devanagari legend, ''Sri Vina / yakapa / la Deva'' |
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| Vinayakapala (c. 913-933 AD) BI dramma (16 mm, 3.19 g) Obverse: Boar-headed Varaha advancing right Reverse: Nagari legend "(Sri) Vi(na)/yaka(pa/la Deva)" |
Further discussion on Aadivaraha type and Vigrahapala type coins can be view here.
5. Some other Pratihara Coins :
Pratihara silver dramma with "Sri Ma" legend :
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| Obverse: King's bearded bust right, wearing ornate crown; Brahmi legend Ma to right Reverse: Stylized fire altar with two attendants |
Dramma with "Sri Yama" legend :
Early medieval Rajasthan/ Malwa Sri Yama, c. 8th-9th century AD, Silver dramma (4.03 g)
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| Obverse: King's bust right; Sharda legend in two lines "Sri Yama" Reverse: Fire altar flanked by attendants |
-KALACHURI DYNASTY :
The Kalachuris were initially a vassal state of the Chalukyas. They probably originated after the fall of Traikutakas. Gradually, the Kalachuris grew out of the Karnataka and expanded their empire in Malwa and part of the northern Maharashtra. Mahishmati was their initial capital. Hence, they are also known as the Kalachuri of Mahishmati. Krishnaraja (550-575 CE) was the first king and also known to have issued coins. Copper plate grants of Krishnaraja's son Sankaragana and of his grandson Buddharaja are known, with dates ranging from c. 596 CE (Sankaragana) to 611 CE (Buddharaja).
Later, Kalchuris subdivided into three separate branches known from their different capitals as Kalachuris of Tripuri, Kalyani and Ratnapur. All three branches issued their own coin types. The Kalachuris are also known to have built Cave temples in Maharashtra, the Famous Elephanta cave and Rameshwar cave at Ellora were commissioned by the Kalachuri kings. Some Kalachuri coins have also been found from these sites.
1-KALACHURIS OF MAHISMATI
1. Krishnaraja coin Types (c. 550-575)
[A] Krishnaraja silver rupaka or drachm - King Bust Gupta Type
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| Krishnaraja, c. 550-575 AD AE unit (12 mm, 2.19 gm) Obverse: King's bust head right looking Reverse: Bull Nandi seated right on a platform, Brahmi legend around -"parama maheswara mata pitri padanudhyata sri krishna" |
This coin is evidently long line of imitation of Gupta Silver issues, popular in Malwa regions.
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| Krishna Raja (AD 550-575) AR Drachm, Diameter: 11 mm , weight: 2.02 grams Obverse : King's bust facing right Reverse : Bull Nandi seated right on a platform, Brahmi legend around “Parama Maheswara Mata Pitri Padanudhyata Sri Krishnaraja” |
[B] Krishnaraja Copper Coin - Bull Nandi Type
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| Krishnaraja, c. 550-575 AD AE unit (10 mm, 0.82 g) Obverse: Bull couchant right with inverted crescent above; dotted border around Reverse: Brahmi legend Sri Krishna Raja, with dotted field below and line at bottom |
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| Krishna raja, Weight: 0.82 gm Obverse : Bull Nandi seated right facing Reverse : Stylized Nandi seated right on a platform, Brahmi legend around “Sri Krishnaraja Parama Maheswara” |
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| Krishnaraja, Weight: 1.09 gm, Diameter: 11 mm Obverse: Bull Nandi seated right facing Reverse: Brahmi legend: "Sri Krishnaraja", temple design below |
[C] Krishnaraja copper Coin - Lakshmi sitting Type
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| Krishnaraja, c. 550-575 AD AE unit (10 mm, 0.82 g) Obverse: Bull couchant right with inverted crescent above; dotted border around Reverse: Brahmi legend Sri Krishna Raja, with dotted field below and line at bottom |
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| Krishnaraja, Weight: 0.73 gm Obverse : Bull Nandi seated right facing Reverse : Deity Lakshmi seated cross-legged facing |
2. -Buddharaja type, (c. 600-625 CE)
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| Buddharaja Deva, Weight: 0.81 gm, diameter : 8 mm Obverse : Elephant walking left, ridden by mahout and the king Reverse : Bull Nandi seated left, Brahmi legend above: “Buddharaja Deva” |
2-KALACHURIS OF TRIPURI
They are also known as later Kalachuri to distinguish them from the Kalachuri of Mahishmati. Their capital was Tripuri near Jabalpur ditrict.
By 1030 CE, the Kalachuri king Gangeyadeva (1015-1040 C.E.) became a Sovereign King and expanded his territoy. He took the title of "vikramaditya" and started his conquests. He defeated the Kosala, Utkala, Chandella, and Pala kings. After having defeated the kalinga king, he took the title of "Tri Kalingadhipati". His son Lakshmikarna further conducted military expedition against neighboring kingdoms. His son Kokalla I was also ruled for a long period of time. This dynasty disappeared by the end of the 12th century.
Coins of GANGEYA DEVA (1015-40 CE)
Gangeya Deva issued Gold coins in large numbers. His extensive empire needed a comprehensive coinage system.
In gold coins he placed four-armed Lakshmi seated cross-legged, holding a lotus in the upper two hands on Obverse side and his name "Srimadgangeydeva" in three lines in bold Nagari letters on the Reverse side. His coins, irrespective of their size and metal have the same type. Gangeyadeva adopted Lakshmi because it was widly worshiped during this period. Beside there was the old tradition of representing Lakshmi on the coin started by the guptas
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| Gangeya Deva (c. 1015-1041 CE), EL stater, diameter: 21 mm, Weight: 3.71 grams Obverse: Goddess Lakshmi seated facing Reverse: Devanagari legend Srimad Gan/geyade/(vah) |
The obverse part has similarity with the post Gupta period Gauda
coins. Gangeya Deva began issuing gold coins carrying the image of a seated Lakshmi, taking his cue from the earlier Gupta coinage tradition. Gold was scarce in the 11th century, but his design was nevertheless copied by neighbouring kings. This coin type remained the standard in central India and issued by other kings too for the next 2 centuries till the Muslim invasion.
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| Gangeya Deva of Tripuri Circa 1015-1040. AV Gold Dinar - 4½ Masha (20mm, 3.95 gm) Obverse : Lakshmi seated facing Reverse : Nagari Legend - "Śrimad Gangeya Devah” in three lines |
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| Obverse : Stylized Godess Laxmi seated in Padmashana (Crossed Legged) |
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| Reverse : Nagari Legend - Lettering: श्रीमद गांगेय देव (Srimad Gangeya Deva) |
Obverse : Stylized Godess Laxmi seated in Padmashana (Crossed Legged)
Reverse : Nagari Legend - "Srimad Gangeya Deva" (श्रीमद गांगेय देव)
Pagoda Type Gold Coin, Tripuri : Issuer - Unknown
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| Pagoda coin, 1270-1311 CE, Gold stater, weight : 3.83 gm Obverse : Pagoda type design Reverse : Blank |
The metal of these coins varies from gold to base gold, silvery gold, silver, silvered copper (billon) and copper. The difference between them is so little perceptible that it is difficult to say that they were issued in three distinct metals. It seems that when Gangeyadeva could not meet the demand of the people of his extensive empire with his pure gold coins, he started issuing debased gold coins in order to increase the number of his gold coins. He issued his silver and copper coins to meet the demand of the people for the coins of lesser market value. Some scholars think that pure gold coins are found only with the earliest types, while silver occurs in the middle ranges and the most degenerate forms of the reverse type are the found with the silvered copper issues alone.
3-KALACHURIS OF RATNAPURA
Kalachuri of Ratnapura were located at Ratnapur in Bilaspur district Chhattisgarh. They were originally the offshoot of the Kalachuris of Tripuri and ruled as an ancillary state for several years. This branch was established by Kalinga Raja around 1000 CE and by the end of 11th century they declared themselves independent.
The Kalachuri rulers of Ratnapura issued gold, silver and copper coins, which bear the issuer's name in Nagari script. The coins feature four types of design
1. [A]Gaja-shardula type: Depicts
a fight between a lion and an elephant. This design occurs on all their gold
coins, and some copper coins.
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| Prithvi Deva, c. 1135-1165 CE, AV quarter Gold stater (0.93 gm) Obverse: Stylized depiction of lion riding on top of elephant right (gajasardula) Reverse: Nagari legend - "Srimat Prithvi Deva" in two lines |
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| Prithvi Deva. Circa 1079. AV Gold Stater 4 1/2 Masha (Weight : 3.83 gm) Obverse : Tiger mounted on elephant right Reverse : “Srimate pr/thvi deva” in Devanagari in two lines across fields |
Ratna Deva (1045-65 CE), AE Copper
Obverse : Crude Gajasardula (Stylized motif of 'lion attacking elephant")
Reverse : Nagari Legend - Srimat Ratnadeva ("De" of "DeVa" in the lower left half)
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| Jajalla Deva (c. 1160-68 CE), AE Copper coin (diameter : 18 mm, Weight : 1.41 gm) Obverse: Lion mounted on elephant (gajasardula) facing right Reverse: Devanagari legend "(Sri)mad Ja/(ja)lla Deva" |
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| Jajalla Deva, (1160-1168 CE), base AV 1 1/8 masha (Weight: 0.89gm), Obverse: tiger mounted on elephant (gajasardula), facing right Reverse: two-line legend |
[B]Lakshmi Type : Depicts Lakshmi in sitting posture with lotus stem on both sides.
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| Ratna Deva II (1126-1140) AR Silver Pana Obverse : Seated goddess Lakshmi, with lotus on both sides Reverse : Devanagari legend “Ratna/ Deva” in two lines. |
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| Ratna Deva III (1181-1182) AR Silver Pana Obverse : Seated goddess Lakshmi, with lotus on both sides Reverse : Devanagari legend “Ratna/ Deva” in two lines |
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| Ratna Deva Coin |
[C]Hanumana type: Depicts Hanuman in various poses, such as flying, crushing a demon (while sitting or standing), holding a trishula, or holding a flag. Only copper coins feature this design.
Issuer Kings : King:- Kamlraj, Ratndeva, Pratapmalla
Obverse:- Name of King (Srimadprithvideva)) in Nagari script
Reverse :- Four handed Hanuman
3. [D]Lion type: Depicts a lion, sometimes with a human head. Featured on copper and silver coins.
4. [E]Dagger type: Features a dagger on copper coins.
-CHANDELLAS OF JEJAKBHUKTI
Chandellas originated from around Kalinjar region, and gradually
expanded in entire Bundelhkhand region known at the time Jejakhbhukti. Their
frontier touched with Paramaras and Kalachuri of Tripuris. Nannuka was the first king of the Chandella dynasty. Initially, Chandellas were the vassal state under Imperial Pratiharas.
There is a long list of Chandella kings right from Vakpati, Jaishakti, VijayaShakti, Rahil and Harsha, Yashovarman, Ganda, Dhanga etc. After invasion from the Turks, Vijayapala, Kirtivarman and Mardanvarman and Parmardi were also famous Kings.
The Chandella coins although issued in gold, silver and copper but they are very rare in numbers. This indicates that the coins were used within the kingdom and there were already a large number of coin in circulation by earlier kings (Pratiharas).
Chandella King Kirttivarman issued Gold coinage similar to the Gangeya Deva of the Kalachuris. Later Sallakshana Varman, MadanaVarman, Paramardi Varman, Trailokya Varman, Vira Varman also issued gold coins.
Jaivarman and Madanvarman issued coins in all three type of metals. Kirttivarman only issed Gold coins and Prithvivarman issued Copper coins. Sallakshanavarmana, Parmardi and Trailokyavarman issued gold and copper coins.
Chandella coins are mostly imitation of the coins of other nearby kingdoms. Kirtivarman (1060 CE) coins are the copy of Gangeya Deva of Tripuri. Other kings
also followed the same pattern.
Chandella Gold Coin stater weigh around 4.06 gram. Half stater unit of the coin is 2.0 gm and quarter stater unit is 1.0 gm. The gold content in the coins are around 60-68% .
1-Kirtivarman coin (1060-1100 CE)
Kirtivarman was the first Chandella King to issue gold coin. Cunningham mentions two types of Gold stater coins issued by Kirtivarman. The obverse side has depiction of Lakshmi sitting in Lalitasan posture on lotus and the reverse side consists of the Nagari Legend - "Srimata Keertivarmma Deva"
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| Kirtti Varman (1060-1100 AD), gold 2¼ masha, Weight: 2.01gm Obv: Stylized representation of goddess Lakshmi seated facing front Rev: Nagari legend "Srimat ki/ rtti vamma / Deva" in three lines |
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| Kirtti Varman (11th Century AD), Gold 1 Masha, Weight: 1.02gm Obv: Seated Goddess Lakshmi facing Rev: Nagari legend "Srimat Ki/tti Varmma/devah", in three lines |
2-Sallakshanavaraman Deva (1100-1115 CE) :
Sallakshana issued coins both in Gold and Copper. The Obverse side has Lakshmi depiction and Reverse side has legend in Nagari "Srimata Hallakshana Varma Deva"
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| Sallakshana Varman. Circa 1120-1135. AV Quarter Dinar (Diameter :12mm, Weight :1.03 gm) Obverse: Lakshmi seated facing Reverse : Nagari legend "śrima ha/llakshana va/rmma deva" in three line |
Sallakshana Varman
3-Jayavarman Deva (1115-1120 CE) :
Jayavarmana also issued coins in gold, silver and copper. Gold coins has typical four handed seated Lakshmi image carrying lotus in upper two hands. on the obverse and reverse side bear legend "Sri Majja Jayvarmma Deva".
other copper coin has depiction of Hanumana, King carrying bow etc
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| Jaya Varman (1255-1274 AD), copper coin, Weight: 2.52gm Obv: Hanuman (warrior) running to right Rev: Devanagari legend in three line "Shri Maj-Ja/ya Varmma/Deva" |
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4-Prithvivarman Deva (1120-29 CE) :
There are two type of copper coin found bearing Prithvi varman Deva name. The coin has an image of Hanuman on obverse while reverse side bears the legend - "Srimata Prithvivarmma Deva". The other type of coins has Horse rider image.
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| Prithvi Varman (c.1120-1128 AD), Copper Coin, Weight: 1.16gm Obv: Horseman charging to right Rev: Nagari legend "Shri mat-Pri/thvi Varmma…" partly visible. |
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| Prithvi Varman (c.1120-1128), Copper Coin, Weight: 1.03gm Obv: Horseman charging to right raising a sword Rev: Nagari legend "Shri mat-Pri/thvi Varmma… " partly visible. |
5-Madanavarmana Deva (1129-63 CE) :
This king issued coins in all three format. However Gold coins are more debased than his predecessors. the depiction of Lakshmi is littlle more crude. The coin bear name "Srimana Madanavarmma Deva". Silver coins also have similar fabric and design bearing same legend.
Obverse : Stylized Godess Laxmi seated in Padmashana (Crossed Legged)
Reverse : Nagari Legend - श्रिमद मदन वर्मन देव (Srimad Madana Varman Deva)
Copper coin has a depiction of Hanumana. and a few coins have depiction of four handed Lakshmi in seated posture.
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| Madana Varman (1130-1165 AD), copper coin, Weight: 1.03gm Obv: Hanuman (warrior) running to right Rev: Nagari legend "Shri Ma(n) Ma / (da)na Vamma…" in two lines |
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Madanavarman (1129-1163 AD), Copper Coin, Weight: 1.58gm Obv: Warrior with a weapon (Hanuman) running to righ Rev: Nagari legend in two/three lines partly visible "Shri Ma [Ma] / (dana Vamma…)" |
6-Parmardi Deva (1165-1202 CE) Coin :
Parmardi Deva issued gold coins. The coin fabric and design is similar to his predesessors. Although the coin metal is debased. One coin of copper is also found to be issued by Parmardi dev from Tewar.
Obv: Goddess Lakshmi, ornate, seated facing forward
Rev: Devanagari legend "Srimat Paramardi"
7-Trailoya Varman (1203 - 1241 CE)
Tailokyavarman
also issued debased gold coin. Obverse part has depiction of four
handed Laksmi in sitting posture while reverse side has three lines
legend bearing name "Srimat Trailokyavarmma Deva". The image of Laksmi
is quite crude. The Copper coin of Trailokyavarman is bearing depiction
of Hanumana.
Obv: The goddess Lakshmi, ornate, seated facing forward
Rev: Devanagari legend "Srimat Trailokyavarma deva"
Obv: The goddess Lakshmi, ornate, seated facing forward
Rev: Devanagari legend "Srimat Trailokyavarma deva"
8-Viravarmana Deva (1240-1282 CE)
Viravarmana
was perhaps the last king of the Chandella dynasty. He also issued
debased gold coin in limited numbers. The coin bear usual Laksmi
depiction and reversed side has his name "Srimada Viravarmma Deva". The copper coin of the Viravarmana is quite similar to his gold coin.
Obv: Goddess Lakshmi, ornate, seated facing forward
Rev: Devanagari legend "Srimad Vi/ra Vama Hi/ra Devi" in three lines
Obv: seated lakshmi cross-legged and facing
Rev: legend in three line in bold nagari letter "srimad vi/ravarma/deva"
-GAHADAVALAS OF KANNAUJ
This Rajput dynasty was ruling the Kingdom of Kannauj after the fall of Pratiharas (1040-1193 CE). Their first capital was Kannauj thenafter they shifted to Varanasi.
King Govinda Chandra (1104 CE) issued Lakshmi type Gold coin similar to the silver issues of GangeyaDeva weighing around 4.13 gram. The weight standard throughout all the mints was not followed and hence we see some coins with different weighing values.
Like Chandella coins these coins were Trimetallic (ie containing
Gold, Silver and Copper in alloy). Where gold was as much as 37% and
Silver share was around 32% and rest of the part was
copper content. The Govinda Chandra coin
type was continued to struck even after his death by his successors.
https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG108287
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| Govinda Chandradeva(1114 CE -1154 CE), Base gold 4 1/2 Masha, Weight: 4.13gm Obverse: Seated Goddess Lakshmi Reverse: Nagari Legend as "Srimad Govindchandra Deva" in three lines. श्रीम गोबीन्द चद्र देव |
Obv: goddess lakshmi seated facing,
Rev: three-line nagari legend "srimad/govindachandra/deva"
-Paramaras coins
The Paramaras ruled in Malwa region from 11th to 14th Century. Their seat of government was at Dhara city. The Paramara kingdom was bounded by the Kalachuris in the East and the Chandellas in North east and the Chalukyas in south.
Economy of Malwa was under-monetize, there was no strong indigenous monetary tradition in Malwa during the period and this is the primary reason we don’t see large number of Paramara coins at early stage.
[A]SILVER COINS OF PARAMARA:
During 11th -12th cnetury the Paramara kings did not feel the need
to issue their own low value coinage, since the Gadhaiya Billon coins of
Gujarat were enough for trading purpose, but following the change in the dynasty
of Gujarat and their withdrawal from Malwa administration in early 13th
century. The paramaras issued Billon coins in fabric, metrology and typology
quite similar to Gadhaiya prototypes. This series was since then continuously
issued.
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Gujarati Gadhaiya coins were current in Paramara state in large
numbers. The Malwa Gadhaiya Coin had distinct Fish hook design which Gujarati
coins lacked. The weight of Malwa type increased by around 10%.
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| Paramaras of Malwa(13th CE), Gadhiyya paisa, Debased Silver (Billon) Dramma, Weight: 4.29 gms, Diameter: 15.67 mm Obv: Degenerate Indo-Sasanian Gadhiyya Type head to the right on the obverse with “sri” to the left of the bust & a “fish hook” to the right of the effigy Rev: a battle scene depicting a horseman brandishing a sword |
- The Fire Altar in origianal Gadhaiya coin was replaced by a Battle scene. The Horseman Brandishing Sword trampling a supine man below and attacks a footman (CHORAMARA COIN).
- The coin bears Brahmi letter “Shri” and “Ja”. One series has letter “Ja” near head and other has letter “Ma” at the same position.
- weight : is around 4.26 gram..
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The “Ja” series coin has Silver and was better in quality. The “Ma”
series coin has 100% copper and inferior in quality.
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| Paramaras Gadhiyya Debased Silver (Billion) Dramma Obverse: Degenerate Indo-Sasanian Type Reverse: a war scene depicting a horseman brandishing a sword, crushing a human and attacking a footman |
In later period the coins design changed, The next phase of coin “Ja”
series contained a triangle on the obverse to the right of the face. and the
start in the reverse Fire alter was replaced by “Om” symbol. Next the “Om”
symbol was expanded into “Shri Omkara”. Similar changes were observed in “Ma”
series coins but the obverse part remained same. The coin contained other
symbols such as Bow, Sword, Chakra (Disc).
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| Silver drachm of Paramaras(1150-1300 CE), Weight: 4.1 gm Obverse: Degenerated Indo-Sasanian style bust, inverted triangle topped by sun and moon to right Brahmi letter ''ja'' in left field Reverse: Crude fire altar with the legend "Sri Omkara" on shaft. |
These coin have some stark similarity with the below mentioned coin types :
- Chaulukya Gadhaiya Dramma coin 1140 CE
- Chahamana Somala Devi coin type
[B] Laxmi type base Gold coin and derivative small Silver coin.
1. Udayadeva (Udayaditya 1070-86 CE), Gold, weight : 4.05 gram,
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| Udayaditya Paramara, gold 4 ½ Masha Obverse : Goddess Lakshmi seated facing front Reverse : Nagari legend "Srimad udaya Devah", in three lines |
2. Heavy Laxmi type, Gold stater, weight : 5.6 gram, Half weight : 3 gram
Nara Vamma (Nara Varman 1094-1133 CE)
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| Nara Varman (1094-1133 CE), gold masha, Weight: 4.03gm Obv: Seated goddess Lakshmi Rev: Nagari legend "Sriman Na/ra Vamma/deva" in three lines |
3. 3. Hybrid Small silver coin, simplified Lakshmi format
Jaya Vamma (Jaya Varman II
1255-74 CE), weight : 2.45 gram
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| Jaya Varman, (1255-1274 CE), AR Silver Dramma unit Obv: Lakshmi seated, facing Rev: Legend in Nagari - " Jaya Vamma" |
[C] Raja Bhoja (13th Century) Coin :
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| Raja Bhoja (c. 13th century), AR Silver dramma, Weight: 0.64 gm Obverse: Stylized lion standing right, with paw raised Reverse: Human figure (Karttikeya), with Nagari legend Sri Bhoja Deva around |
[D] Punch marked Pagoda type coin of JagaDeva Paramara (12th CE) Coin :
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| Jagadeva Paramara (12th CE), Gold, Weight: 3.68 gm, Diameter: 18.19 mm Obverse: Four punches, facing LEFT, spearhead with symbol fish/Human, and legend punch with Nagari legend: "Sri Jagadeva" Reverse: Blank |
Coin names popular during Paramara times : Vimshopaka - Copper Coin, Roopaka - Silver coin, Dramma/Parutha Dramma - Gadhaiya paisa coin
-Chahamanas coin
During the Imperial Pratihara Rule, many Rajput families were ruling Rajasthan as their vassals. These feudatories were given freedom to issue their own coins. Early coins of these feudatory states were quite similar to the Indo-Sassanian types. But as the Imperial power of the Pratiharas began to decline, several kingdoms in Rajasthan became virtually independent. The earliest of them was the Chahamanas of Sakambari (Sambhar).
The Chahamanas originally had their capital at Shakambhari (modern-day Sambhar). Unitil the 10th century, they ruled as Gurjura-Pratihara vassals. When Partihara power began to decline, the Chahamana ruler Simharaja declared independence and assumed the title "Maharajadhiraja". In the early 12th century, Ajayaraja II moved the kingdom's capital to Ajayameru (modern-day Ajmer). For this reason Chahamana rulers are also known as the Chauhans of Ajmer.
1-Earliest Chahamana coins dramma with "Sri Ha" Legend : (900-1000 CE)
These coins are of unknown provenance. They are found in Rajasthan and nearby areas, but it is uncertain who actually issued these coins. Maheshwari suggests these were issued by the Chahamanas, who occupied Rajasthan during the period when these were struck - the hoard evidence that Maheshwari provides does support this attribution.
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| Chahamana dynasty of Shakambhari, (900-1100 CE), AR Silver dramma, (Weight: 4.11 gm) Obverse: King's bearded bust right (based on the Hunnic coins of Vasudeva), wearing ornate crown; Brahmi legend Sri Ha to right Reverse: Stylized fire altar flanked by two attendants |
2-Vasudeva Imitation type Coins ()
The crown has wings on either side, imitating Sassanian coins but the usual "Globe" above the crown is replaced with the Brahmi "Sa". The field in front of the portrait is plain, various Sassanian style motifs around the portrait, beaded border.
Reverse: A Sassanian style Fire Altar with attendants on both sides
3-Ajaya Raja and Somalekha Devi Coin:
The Chauhan king Ajaya Raja and his wife queen Somalekha (1118 CE) issued Silver-Copper Billon Drammas of Lakshmi type coins. Which weight around 4.28 gram, made of Silver-Copper alloy in proportion 20:80, with low silver content.
[A] Ajaya Raja of Shakambari (1118 CE)
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| Ajaya Deva alias Jaichand ( c.1110-1120 CE ), 4 ½ Masha, Silver Obv: Goddess Lakshmi seated front facing Rev: Nagari legend in two lines "Sri Aja / ya / deva" |
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| Ajaya Deva, Silver Dramma Obverse: Godess Laxmi seated facing Reverse: Nagari Legend "SRI AJAYA DEVA" |
Obverse: Godess Laxmi seated facing
Reverse: Nagari Legend "SRI AJAYA DEVA"
[B] Copper coins of Somala Devi :
Obverse: the queen name Somala Devi in sitting posture.
Reverse: Crude Horseman
Weight : 1.31-2.86 gram.
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| Obverse: Horseman riding to right. |
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| Reverse: Nagari legend in two lines "श्री सोमल देवी" Shri Soma / la Devi. |
Another coin of Somaladevi has a man and an elephant motif :
Somala devi type coin was issued long after her death, even in the sultnate period.
Copper coin of Shiva and Nandi Superimposed on standing bull called Kota Family coins were dominant coinage of the Rajasthan region.
http://www.chiefacoins.com/Database/Countries/Chahamana.htm
4-Vigraharaja IV, (1150 –1164 CE) of Shakambari
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| Vigraharaja IV, (1150 –1164 CE), Gold Coin Obverse: Rama standing left, holding bow; "sri ra ma" in Devanagari Reverse: "Srimad vigra/ha raja de/va" in Devanagari; star and moon symbols below |
5-Someshvara Deva (c. 1169-79 CE)
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| Someshvara Deva (c. 1169-79 CE), Silver-Copper Billon jital (Diameter: 16 mm, Weight: 3.14 gm) Obverse: Horseman right, with Devanagari legend (Sri) So/me(svara) Deva around Reverse: Bull seated left, with Devanagari legend (Asavari Sri) Samanta Deva around |
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| Someshvara Deva (c. 1169-79 CE), Silver-Copper Billon jital (Diameter: 16 mm, Weight: 3.14 gm) Obverse: Horseman right, with Devanagari legend (Sri) So/me(svara) Deva around Reverse: Bull seated left, with Devanagari legend Asa(vari Sri) Samanta (Deva) around |
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| Someshvara Deva (c. 1169-79 CE), Silver-Copper Billon jital (Diameter: 16 mm, Weight: 3.14 gm) Obverse: Horseman right, with Devanagari legend (Sri) So/me(svara) Deva around Reverse: Bull seated left, with Devanagari legend Asa(vari Sri) Samanta (Deva) around |
Pithimva Deva ( Prithviraja II ) Chauhan ruler of Sakambhari and Delhi
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| Pithimva Deva ( Prithviraja II ) (1167 CE); one Jital, Weight: 3.36gm, Diameter: 15.6 mm Obverse: Horseman to Right, Nagari Legend "Sri pi / thimva Deva" around Reverse: Bull Left, Nagari "Jenda Raja Sri Samanta Deva" on top |
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