Lot 1097 – Gupta Empire, Chandragupta I, c. 319-335, AV dinar, 7.80 g. King and Queen

Gupta Empire, Chandragupta I, c. 319-335, AV dinar, 7.80 g. (22 mm). King and Queen.

Special features: king holding crescent-topped staff in left hand, with his name candragupta being fully on flan, which is unusual. This coin has an unusual trait in that the leg of the goddess on reverse is resting on the neck of the lion; this feature makes this coin a rare variant. Kumar, TOTGE 2024, Class I, variety B1. Raven, SG/group 2.

A variety distinct from the preceding ‘king and queen’ type coins, showing no crescent between king and queen and the king carrying a dagger to his right side. There is a control mark on reverse. With legible inscriptions on both sides.

EF, lustrous and largely legible, pleasing circular flan with excellent details of the king wearing necklace, belt, and dagger.

Ex Chand Collection British Museum no 1.9.03.