2020-08-31 Mon

The word Kushan derived from the Chinese term Guishang; they were one of the five branches of the Yuezhi confederation. Their origin is connected to Central Asia. The Kushan dynasty became one of the prosperous empires of India. This dynasty was established by KujulaKadphises in 78 AD by gradually carving out a kingdom in the north-western part of ancient India.

This gold dinar issued by king Huvishka during his rule in Kushan Empire was sold for INR 2,20,000 in an electronic auction of Oswal Antiques that was held on 24th August 2020. Huvishka I was the fifth ruler of the Kushan dynasty, after sitting on the throne of the Kushan dynasty king Huvishka I issued a variety of gold and copper coins. The coins issued by Huvishna I is a rich source of studying the Kushan era of art, history, and religion.

The obverse of this gold dinar depicts Crowned Nimbate half bust of Huvishka, with flaming shoulders, arising from the clouds, wearing a decorative jacket, holding scepter and goad, Bactrian legend “SHAONANO SHAO (OOESHKI KOSHANO)” around. The reverse of this coin depicts standing God Shareoro facing towards left.

Image Courtesy: Oswal Antiques