2020-08-14 Fri

In the ancient period, Magadha was one of the most powerful kingdoms amongst 16 Mahajanapada. Today; this region is located in the area of modern-day Bihar and its capital was at Rajagriha and then at Pataliputra.

The meaning of the word Mahajanapada is ‘Great Countries’ or 'Great Republics'. In ancient times Magadha had played an important role in the development of Buddhism and Jainism.

We can find the reference of Magadha in the Indian text ‘Atharvaveda’ where they are found listed along with the Angas, Gandharis, and Mujavats. Magadha kingdom is also mentioned in epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata and in various Puranas. In the Indian epic Mahabharata, Magadha was the mightiest kingdom in the country.

This silver Karshapana was issued from the Magadha Janapada. The weight of this silver Karshapana is 3.39g. This silver Karshapana depicts five symbol Sun, six-armed symbol, Rabbit, mammoth, and scorpion.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction