Jital - 'Bronze'- King Bhima son of Kamaluka - Kabul Shahi

Historical Context: This copper Jital, issued between 921 and 964 CE, belongs to King Bhima, son of Kamaluka, a significant ruler of the Hindu Shahi dynasty of Kabul and Gandhara. Bhima's reign marked a critical period, facing increasing pressure from the rising Ghaznavid power. These Jitals represent the final iteration of a long-standing currency system, circulating as the primary medium of exchange during the twilight of Hindu rule in the region.

Artistry: The design adheres to the Indo-Sasanian/Hindu Shahi numismatic tradition, characterized by highly stylized, often abstract iconography. The anonymous engraver, typical of regional mints, produced the distinctive "bull and horseman" motif. The obverse features a mounted horseman, typically with a spear. The reverse displays a recumbent humped bull (Nandi), with the ruler's name in Sharada script above. Execution is generally crude but immediately recognizable.

Technical/Grading: This Jital (Tye#12.1) is struck on a copper flan, 17mm and 2.45g, consistent with the series. High-points for wear or strike quality include the horseman's head, spear, and the bull's hump and head. Due to rapid production and worn dies, strikes are frequently off-center, resulting in partial legends or incomplete designs. Planchets are typically irregular and broadflan. The copper composition makes these coins prone to environmental degradation, with surface pitting common.