Lot 10107 – Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375, Asvamedha, AV dinar 6.85 g.

Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375, AV dinar 6.85 g. (20 mm). Obverse: ‘Asvamedha’ (horse sacrifice) type; sacrificial horse standing left on podium, yupa (sacrificial post) in front, Brahmi legend around ASVAMEDHA PARAKRAMAH (the King of Kings, who had performed the Asvamedha sacrifice, wins heaven after protecting the earth) and si below horse,. Reverse: Rajya Lakshmi standing left, holding towel in left hand, and fly whisk in right, Brahmi legend at right, dotted border around. Kumar TOTGE 2024, class I.

EF+, lustrous surfaces and attractive appearance, details are well-defined on the horse.

This rare issue was struck to commemorate the participation of Samudragupta in the holy Vedic ceremony of Asvamedha, probably to mark a successful military campaign. According to Kumar, Treasures, 149 examples are believed to exist of this coin today.

Ex Chand Collection 1.11.15