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1 Thirai Cash Chera Dynasty
| Issuer | Travancore, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1600-1700 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
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| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | Reverse displays a crude, heavily worn device within a raised circular border, depicting what appears to be a schematic anthropomorphic or symbolic figure in low relief, possibly a conch or royal emblem associated with Travancore or Chera dynastic iconography. The design is rendered in a highly abstract, archaic style consistent with cast copper cash coinage of the region. The flan is irregular and the surface shows typical patination and wear. No inscription or legend is present. |
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| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Log in to see details |
| Mintage | ND (1600-1700) |
| Additional information |
The cash coinage of Travancore's early period circulated within a regional economy heavily shaped by the pepper and spice trade, where Portuguese and later Dutch commercial pressure forced local rulers to maintain reliable small denominations for daily market transactions. The Chera dynastic attribution on these issues signals a deliberate invocation of ancient Tamil kingship legitimacy by Travancore's rulers — a political calculation made in copper.