2021-04-03 Sat

This silver half shatamana that weighs around 5.10g was issued from Magadha Janapada. 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. During the ancient period, Magadha Janapada was one of the most powerful kingdoms amongst the sixteen mahajanapada of ancient India. Today it is situated in modern-day Bihar and during the ancient period, the capital of Magadha Janapada was modern-day Bihar, and later it was shifted to Pataliputra.

This silver half Shatamana is listed for INR 20,000 in an upcoming auction of Oswal Antiques that will be held in Mumbai on 25th April 2021. The obverse of this coin depicts a six-armed symbol punched in the centre, small symbols around.

Image Courtesy: Oswal Antiques