2016-09-17 Sat

The Chola Dynasty was a Tamil dynasty that ruled primarily in Southern India. Raja Raja I (985-1014 AD) was one of the greatest rulers of the Chola Dynasty and he adopted the title “Yudhha Malla” which means victorious in battlefield or war. He issued many gold coins, among them we have brought to you one the most interesting coin.

One gold coin of 1/8 kahavanu (Fanam) weighs around 0.43grams. The obverse of the coin depicts a tiger seated right, an umbrella and a pair of upright fish. The reverse bears Nagari legend ’Yuddha/ Malla. This coin is rare.

What is strange is that this is for the first time that a Tamil coin bears Nagari legend. It is a very important numismatic evidence for us to study further about it. Why and how it was introduced is still the matter of debate. One reason could be to gain acceptance from the Northern dynasties to trade and commerce. Second could be the influence of Brahmins from up North who perhaps served or were advisers to the Chola Kings.