2026-05-29 Fri

Vasudeva I (Bazodeo) was a Kushan emperor and the last of the Great Kushans. He ruled approximately 191–232 CE, succeeding Huvishka and preceding Kanishka II.

His reign marked a transition in the Kushan Empire and continued artistic patronage. His rule's extent was northern India and Central Asia, minting coins in Balkh (Bactria). His reign saw the retreat of Chinese influence in Central Asia. Toward the end, he faced Sasanian incursions under Ardashir I, losing western territories (Bactria) and leading to the rise of Kushano-Sasanians

Vasudeva I issued gold dinars, its fractions and copper coins.

Obverse: The king standing left, nimbate with halo, wearing a helmet/crown, sacrificing over an altar with a trident behind, Legend around the king in Bactrian Greek script: "Shaonanoshao Bazodeo Koshano" ("King of Kings, Vasudeva the Kushan").

Reverse: Predominantly the god Oesho (= Shiva), standing with trident, sometimes with the bull Nandi. A few early coins show other deities like Mao or Nana, but Shiva dominates. Later issues include the nandipada symbol.

The above coin was recently sold in an auction at INR 155000 hammer.