2019-12-21 Sat

The Pallavas were one of the prominent dynasties of ancient India; they ruled South India for around 500 years. The dynasty has left a permanent mark in the field of art and architecture. The famous shore temples and ratha of Mahabalipuram are examples of their contribution towards art and architecture.

Sivaskandhavarman was an independent ruler of the Pallava dynasty. Later; he established his capital at Kanchi which contributed as the capital of the Pallava dynasty for centuries. From one of Allahabad inscription of Samudragupta, we found that one of the kings of Pallava named Vishnupopa was defeated by Gupta king Samudragupta.

This potin coin which weighs around 2.48g was issued by the king of Pallava of Kanchi. The obverse of this depicts standing bull facing towards the right with the legend ‘Pakapituku’. The reverse of this coin depicts the ‘Spoked wheel with arches’.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction