1 Kasu - Venkatapa Nayakas of Gingee

Historical Context: This 1 Kasu copper coin originates from the Venkatapa Nayakas of Gingee, a powerful feudatory under the nominal suzerainty of the Vijayanagara Empire during its post-Talikota decline (1570-1600). Venkatapa Nayaka II (c. 1570-1606) ruled Gingee, a strategic fortress in present-day Tamil Nadu. His coinage reflects the increasing autonomy of regional Nayaka chieftains after 1565, continuing Vijayanagara numismatic traditions while asserting local authority amidst political fragmentation in South India.

Artistry: Specific engravers for copper kasu of this period are generally unrecorded. The stylistic school, however, adheres to the broader Vijayanagara tradition, often featuring Hindu deities or symbols. Given the small module (12mm) and base metal, the iconography on Venkatapa Nayaka issues typically includes a stylized depiction of a deity such as Hanuman, Garuda, or a bull on the obverse, with a Grantha or Telugu legend on the reverse, often naming the ruler. Details can be crude or highly stylized, reflecting local minting practices rather than imperial standards. Signatures are not known for these issues.

Technical/Grading: For this 12mm copper kasu, critical points for evaluation include the clarity and completeness of the strike, particularly on the central device and the often-weakly impressed legend. Off-center strikes and irregular flans are common, thus a well-centered strike on a round, well-formed planchet significantly enhances grade. Preservation of surface details, free from heavy pitting, verdigris, or lamination defects common to copper issues, is paramount. Legibility of the Grantha/Telugu legend, even if partially struck, is a key determinant of desirability, alongside the distinctness of the depicted deity or symbol.