Silver Rupee Venkoji (Ekoji I) Tanjore Marathas

Description

Issued between 1674–1686 under Venkoji (Ekoji I), this silver Rupee belongs to the formative coinage of the Tanjore Maratha dynasty. Venkoji, the half-brother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, established Maratha rule in Tanjore and introduced a distinctive regional coinage tradition. Struck in silver using hammered minting techniques, these rupees reflect the compact and symbolic style of South Indian circulation coinage of the era.

The obverse features the Nagari letter “Ve” placed beneath an arched motif, representing the ruler’s name in a simplified yet bold calligraphic style, accompanied by dotted decorative elements.

The reverse depicts a stylized boar motif rendered in a linear and abstract manner, a traditional emblematic design associated with regional dynastic symbolism and medieval South Indian coinage.

Coins of Venkoji are highly regarded for their historical connection to the rise of the Tanjore Marathas and their unique iconography. A desirable addition for collectors of Maratha history, hammered silver coinage, and South Indian dynastic issues.