2016-09-30 Fri

As we know Numismatics is the scientific study of coins. The coins throw light on political, economic and religious history of ancient India. Any inscription found on coin, makes it more relevant and authentic for Historians to study further.

It would be wrong to make any instant conclusion about the earliest inscribed coin of India. Numbers of inscribed coins have been found from Ancient to Modern India.

Name of the kings or their titles are the most common inscriptions found on the coins. Apparently, it was only after the Greek invasion that we come across coins with the names of the kings clearly engraved on them.

One of most well known ruler Raja Raja I Chola (973-985 AD) was given number of titles like ‘Rajakesari’, ‘ Arumoli’ and ‘Mummudi-Chola’, meaning the three crowns – Chera, Chola and Pandya, worn by the Chola king.

Another title given to him is “Uttam Chola”, probably meaning excellent or perfect king. This we come to know from his silver Kahavanu coin. Weighing around 4.24g, its obverse depicts seated tiger to right with an umbrella and a pair of upright fish with bow and lamp behind. The reverse of it bears the Nagari legend “Uttam Chola” and surrounded by dotted border.

To read about the Gold coin issued by Raja Raja Chola Click here