Catalog
Karshapana - Ujjain Post Mauryan
| Issuer | Ujjain region |
|---|---|
| Year | 200 BC - 50 BC |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | 1 Karshapana |
| 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 | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Log in to see details |
| Orientation | Log in to see details |
| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
| Reference(s) | Log in to see details |
| Obverse description | A bull standing to right occupies the left field, with an Indradhvaja (standard) symbol positioned above the bull. At centre, a tree within a railing is depicted in relief, rendered in the schematic punch-marked style characteristic of Post-Mauryan Ujjain coinage. To the right stands the figure of Mahakal, depicted frontally. The composition is arranged across the irregular square flan with punch-applied devices typical of the period. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | The reverse is dominated by the distinctive six-orbed Ujjain symbol, a cruciform design radiating from a central point with six circular pellets or orbs placed at the terminals and intersections of the arms, a hallmark emblem of Ujjain regional coinage of the Post-Mauryan period. The symbol fills the central field of the irregular square flan, with additional subsidiary symbols visible in the surrounding areas. The surface shows characteristic green patination consistent with long burial, with the design elements executed in shallow punch-marked relief. |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Log in to see details |
| Mintage | Log in to see details |
| Additional information |
The post-Mauryan punch-marked coinages of Ujjain represent a period of fragmented regional authority following the collapse of Mauryan imperial control after Ashoka's death in 232 BC. Ujjain itself had been a major Mauryan administrative center — Ashoka served there as viceroy before his accession — and local issuing continued under regional rulers whose identities remain largely unresolved in the historical record.
Copper issues of this type circulated alongside silver punch-marked pieces at a time when Ujjain was a significant commercial node on routes connecting the Gangetic plain to western ports.