Potin unit - Kadambas of Banavasi

The Kadambas of Banavasi were among the earliest indigenous dynasties to assert independent rule in the Deccan following the collapse of Pallava authority in Karnataka, and their coinage reflects a polity still developing its numismatic identity. Potin — a debased alloy of copper, tin, and lead — was the practical choice for low-denomination exchange in a region where silver was scarce and bronze production inconsistent. At 0.36 g, this unit is exceptionally light even by potin standards, suggesting either heavy circulation loss or intentional production at minimal metal cost.