¼ Karshapana Shunga Dynasty

Description

Issued during the Shunga Dynasty between 185 and 73 BC, this copper ¼ Karshapana belongs to one of the earliest series of cast and struck Indian coinage. Measuring approximately 15 mm and weighing around 2.2 grams, the coin features the characteristic irregular fabric commonly seen on early Indian copper issues.

The obverse depicts an elephant walking left carrying a mounted Shunga ruler, an important royal motif symbolizing military strength, authority, and imperial power in early Indian numismatics.

The reverse bears a Chaitya (three-arched hill) surmounted by a crescent, a well-known religious and symbolic emblem frequently found on coins of the Shunga period, reflecting the artistic and cultural traditions of ancient India.

Highly sought after by collectors of ancient Indian coinage, this Elephant Rider type is an excellent addition to collections focused on early Indian kingdoms, Buddhist symbolism, or the evolution of indigenous coin designs.