Lot No: 37

Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type

Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type
Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type
Lot No: 37

Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type

Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type
Sasanka Dynasty, King of Gauda, Base Gold Dinar (600-630 CE) - Abhishekha Type

Description

Sasanka Dynasty, King Of Gauda (600-630 CE), Base Gold Dinar, Abhishekha Type ( Wt: 9.07 gm, Dia: 19.01mm).

Obverse : 
lord Shiva, nimbate, seated facing on recumbent Bull facing to left, Brahmi legend 'Vijaya' below the bull, with moon at upper left.

Reverse : 
The goddess lakshmi, nimbate, seated cross-legged on a lotus, holding a lotus in left hand, two elephants are pouring water over her head, Brahmi legend "Sri Shashanka" in the right field.

Comment : 
Shashanka, ruler of Gauda in the early seventh century CE, established a powerful kingdom in Bengal with his capital at Karnasuvarna, near modern Murshidabad. A contemporary and rival of Harshavardhana, he played an important role in the political landscape that emerged after the decline of Gupta power.

This dinar combines Shashanka’s devotion to Shiva with the auspicious imagery of Lakshmi. Shiva appears seated upon his bull, Nandi, while the reverse depicts Abhisheka-Lakshmi, also known as Gaja-Lakshmi, receiving a ceremonial bathing from two elephants. The scene evokes prosperity and divine blessing, complementing the royal message of the coin. The legend “Sri Shashanka” identifies the issuing king, making this piece a valuable record of early Bengal’s independent coinage.

(Mitch. ATEC 5224-25/Bose Nasir # SGA-10.1), choice very fine, Very Rare.