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Karshapana - Maurya-Sunga Period
| Issuer | Shunga Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 300 BC - 100 BC |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Diameter | Log in to see details |
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| Shape | Round (irregular, Bifaced) |
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| Obverse description | Central field dominated by the Three Arched Hill (Chaitya) symbol, a characteristic emblem of the Maurya-Shunga monetary tradition, rendered in bold relief as three ascending arched forms surmounting a rectangular base. The motif rises prominently from the flat flan, with an additional secondary symbol — possibly a crescent or bull — visible in the lower left field. The coin exhibits the irregular, lobate flan profile typical of cast copper issues of this period, with no legends or inscriptions present. The surface displays a dark olive-green patina consistent with ancient burial and oxidation. The design is executed in a schematic, non-naturalistic style characteristic of early Indian iconographic coinage. |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | Central field bearing a bold Hollow Cross or swastika-derived symbol in high relief, formed by four arms of equal length meeting at a central square void, creating an open cruciform design. The symbol is circumscribed by a raised serpentine or curved linear element that encircles the cross motif, consistent with the decorative conventions found on Shunga-period cast copper karshapanas. The flan is irregular and lobate in outline, with no epigraphy or legends present. The surface carries a heavy dark green and brown patina indicative of prolonged burial. The overall execution is bold and schematic, characteristic of the cast coinage traditions of the Gangetic plain during the late Maurya and Shunga periods. |
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| Mintage | ND (300 BC - 100 BC) |
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