Satavahanas: A Copper Coin of the Dynasty "Founder"

[mitresh]

Satavahana Empire, King Satavahana, Copper, 3.93g, circa 200 BC

The Satavahanas, also known as Andhras, rose to prominence after the fall of the Mauryan Empire in circa 200 BC. This coin is their early issue inscribed in the name of "King Satavahana" which is considered as either the name of the founder of the Satavahana dynasty or else it is the title of the dynasty used by various Satavahana kings. Most printed catalogs refer it to the former ie founder King although I am not certain of the basis for such a claim.

The coin has a prominent "Ujjaini" symbol (cross with circular orbs at each extremity) on the Obv with circular legend in Brahmi, and a stupa/chaitya on the Rev. The name of the King along with the Ujjain symbol, presently in Madhya Pradesh (MP), demonstrates that the Satavahanas influence extended not only to domains in South India but also extended to Central India. The stupa is a common Buddhist symbol that is not surprising on this coin considering the Satavahanas took over territories of the ernstwhile Maurya's who, under Ashoka and successors, were mainly followers of buddhism that was also the main religion   at that time.

[Quant.Geek]

WOW! I am drooling.  That is one amazing coin and the patina is just lovely...Where on earth did you pick that up if you don't mind me asking?


Ram

[THCoins]

Don't know if you yourself tried to transcribe the inscription. This is what i came up with:
I believe the "Va" is inscribed not fully correct. It should be symmetric.
Can't make heads or tails of the possible "sa".
If i'm wrong please correct me.

[mitresh]

Ram hi! The coin came from an Indian Auction.

Anthony - thanks for the transliteration that seems on the right track except the initial 'sa'. I'll try to click another picture from a different angle if that provides more clarity of the script.