Lot 1104 – Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375 (or Kachagupta), AV dinar, 7.38 g. Chakra

Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375 (or Kachagupta), AV dinar, 7.38 g. (20 mm). Obverse: ‘chakra’ type; king wearing tunic over loin cloth with a dagger on belt, standing, holding chakradhvaja (wheel-topped standard) and sacrificing at altar, with Brahmi kacha below his left arm and circular legend around beginning 1 o’clock. Reverse: goddess Lakshmi standing, nimbate, holding lotus flower and cornucopia, Brahmi inscription at right in a straight line, sarvarajochetta, tamgha left, dotted border around. A very rare variety. Raven, SG/group 2.

Probably a type minted during the reign of Kachagupta or Ramagupta (names known only through coin evidence and perhaps the same person), uncertain figures in the Gupta royal lineage but probably either a son or brother of Samudragupta I.

Fine details, possible edge filing.

Ex Chand Collection British Museum no 1.9.08.