2016-11-23 Wed

Samatata, belonging to the Post-Gupta period have similar coinage to the imperial Guptas.

Their coins give evidence of their religion confirming the fact that they were indeed followers of Hinduism.

The reverse of their coin usually depicts the Bull, (vahana of Lord Shiva), Goddess Laxmi, Shiva with a symbol trident, the moon, and much more.

One special coin is the Gold Dinar Ratnattarya type. The Obverse of it depicts one of the Tirthankar (probably assumed Mahavira) in the meditating pose with illegible legend around it; while the reverse of it bears the bull with its head reverted left.

As it is mentioned above, the Bull is the Vahana of Shiva. So this particular coin is of religiously important as it depicts both Hindu and Jain religion. This certifies their religious tolerance.

Literally, Ratnattarya means triple gems of Jainism which includes- the right faith, the right knowledge and the right conduct to follow the path to liberation.

To explore more on Samatata region click here.

This also is applicable in today’s world that all religions are equal. Till then happy collecting! :)