2021-07-08 Thu

This copper coin; which weighs around 3.5g was issued by Ancient Malwa from the region of Ujjain. The obverse of this coin depicts ‘Gajalakshmi seated cross-legged in the centre, flanked by two elephants standing on lotuses. The two elephants hold water-pots in their trunks and lustrate the goddess. The reverse of this coin depicts the 'Ujjain' symbol with concentric circles as orbs.

Goddess Gajalakshmi has a significant place in Hindu mythology. In Hindu mythology, Laxmi is a representative of prosperity, good luck, and abundance.

During the ancient period, Ujjain was one of the most important trade centres which connected all the major trade routes during that time. The important trade route which was connected to Ujjain was Pataliputra (Bihar), Shravasti (Kosala to the seaport in Sopara), Bharuch in Gujarat.

Image Courtesy: Classical Numismatic Gallery