2018-11-19 Mon

Travancore was a Princely State during the British rule in India. Today, it is the part of Kerala. Travancore was ruled by a royal family of Padmanabhapuram and later by Thiruvananthapuram.

Earlier during the pre-independence period, it was one of the most prosperous and powerful kingdoms of medieval India. Travancore kings minted many beautiful coins in different metals such as gold, silver and copper. Since they are devotees of Lord Vishnu, the majority of the Travancore coins feature objects and symbols associated with Lord Vishnu.

Sree Mulam Thirunal Rama Varma ruled the state from 1885 to 1924 AD. During the reign, he issued gold, silver, copper and bronze coins. These coins are found in the denomination of Fanam, Rupee, Cash, Chuckram etc.

Above shown copper half Chuckram was attributed to Rama Varma’s region. This coin depicts the Conch with 6 spines and Malayalam legend ‘Ara chuckram’ around on its obverse. The reverse of a coin decorated with Sudarsana chakram in the centre within the line and dotted circle.

Classical Numismatic Gallery sold this coin for INR 33,000 in Auction held on 19th May 2018.

Image Source: Classical Numismatic Gallery