2023-08-01 Tue

After the disintegration of Mauryan Empire, many independent states which were annexed by the Empire before, declared their independence. Among them, were the states that issued coins in the name of the group of people / jana / tribe. These are called republican (gana) states.

This arsenical copper coin of Paurava king Mahindramitra has an estimated price of Rs. 40,000-50,000 in an upcoming auction. On the obverse, there is a lion seated facing right, traces of a five-hooded cobra, surmounted by a parasol below. There is a Brahmi legend that says (Ra)ño Poravasa Mahi(da). On the reverse, there is a tree-in-railing, along with Kharoshthi letters A and Spa to left and right and traces of triangle-headed standard to left.

The Pauravas were an ancient ruler of the north-west region.

Image Courtesy: Classical Numismatic Gallery.