Lot 4

Ancient, Archaic Series, Punch Marked Coinage, Bhabua hoard type, attributed to Kashi Mahajanapada (c. 440-430 BC), Silver 5 Shana, 5.71 gms, 17.38 x 21.05 mm, Obv: A pair of one geometric symbol and twice eight rays around circle, Rev: Banker marks,Modern Varanasi district, alongwith parts of Jaunpur, Ghazipur and Mirzapur formed the part of ancient ‘Kashi’ janapada, which was amongst the earliest janapadas from 7th to 6th century BC and was ruled by Brahmadutta family.  Kashi’s punchmarked coinage is considered to be among the earliest coinage on Indian soil.  Present coin pertains to its earliest phase and has been previously reported from Bhabhua hoard.  Chief characteristics of this coinage is that ‘Kashi’ symbol is not fully evolved yet and the space seems to have been filled with simple but unplanned wavy lines with only a basic scheme of things represented.  This is a four symbol coin (ABCC) pattern i.e. 3 different types of dies have been used, of which ‘C’ (small one) is struck twice.  The series, to which, present coin belongs is on heavier side (28 mashakas i.e. nearing 6 gm.), which is typical feature of early phase coins of this series and commenced around the period when first coinage of middle Ganges region were being issued (c.460 BC) and ended when Sisunaga (of Magadha) set his son as regent at Varanasi (c.400 BC). Mitch ATEC # 2306 similar, unlisted weight, very fine, Exceedingly rare.