1 Kasu - Raghunatha Nayaka

Uitgever Thanjavur Nayak kingdom (Indian Hindu Dynasties)
Jaar 1600-1634
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde
Valuta Kasu
Samenstelling Copper
Gewicht 2.93 g
Diameter 12 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) MSI#772
Beschrijving voorzijde Rama standing facing, holding bow and arrow
Schrift voorzijde
Opschrift voorzijde
Beschrijving keerzijde King Raghunatha Nayaka standing in adoration position As per Mitchiner, it is Hanuman who is standing with hands in front of chest
Schrift keerzijde
Opschrift keerzijde
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (1600-1634) - -
Numisquare-ID 7676090690
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: This 1 Kasu copper coin was issued during Raghunatha Nayaka's reign (1600-1634), a pivotal ruler of the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom. As a prominent successor state to the Vijayanagara Empire, the Nayaka period saw significant cultural, literary, and architectural advancements. Raghunatha Nayaka was renowned as a scholar, poet, and military strategist, fostering an era of stability. Copper kasu coins served as the essential circulating medium for daily commerce, reflecting the kingdom's economic activity and asserting its independent Hindu sovereignty.

Artistry: The engraver remains anonymous, common for pre-modern Indian numismatics where dies were crafted by skilled local artisans. Stylistically, the coin adheres to South Indian traditions, heavily influenced by the Vijayanagara Empire. Typical designs for Raghunatha Nayaka's kasu feature a standing deity, often Vishnu or Rama, on the obverse, symbolizing the ruler's devotion and divine legitimacy. The reverse typically bears a Nagari legend, identifying the ruler or kingdom, rendered in a characteristic script.

Technical/Grading: Given its small 12mm flan and copper composition, strikes on these 1 Kasu coins are frequently irregular and off-center. High-points for preservation include the deity's head and attributes on the obverse, and the uppermost portions of the Nagari legend on the reverse. A well-struck example, though rare, would exhibit clear detail across the entire design. The 2.93 gram weight is consistent with other issues. Planchet quality can vary, often showing minor imperfections or unevenness inherent to the minting process.

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