2018-05-26 Sat

Rashtrakuta dynasty had ruled a large part of Indian subcontinent between 6th to 10th centuries. In Sanskrit the ‘Rashtra’ means ‘region’ and the word ‘Kuta’ means ‘Chieftains’. They were ‘Chieftains’ in central India before becoming a ruling dynasty. They had played the main role towards Indian art and architecture. The Rashtrakuta were the feudatories of Chalukya, this is known from one of the inscription of Chalukya’s .

The founder of Rashtrakuta dynasty was King Dantidurga, he was one of the most important and popular kings of Rashtrakuta dynasty. Dantidurga defeated Chalukya of Badami and led to the foundation of Rashtrakuta Empire.

This very rare silver coin weighs around 0.45g was issued by Rashtrakuta king, Gunatunga. The name Gunatunga is one of the titles adopted by the Rastrakuta Kings. The obverse of this coin depicts a boar facing towards left. The reverse of this coin is inscribed with the Brahmi legend in two lines.

Image Courtesy: Oswal Auction