Lot 1129 – Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375, AV dinar, 7.50 g. Javelin

Gupta Empire, Samudragupta, c. 335-375, AV dinar, 7.50 g. (20 mm). Obverse: ‘javelin’ type; king wearing low cap and royal tunic over loin cloth, standing, holding javelin with spearhead pointed down and sacrificing at altar, with Garuda standard in left field, Brahmi samudra-gupta in two lines below his left arm, circular Brahmi legend around beginning at 7 o’clock. Reverse: goddess Lakshmi enthroned, holding diadem and cornucopia, Brahmi inscription at right, parakramah, tamgha left, dotted border around. Kumar, TOTGE 2024, Class II, variety E. Raven, SG/group 6.

A fine copy of the rare variety E that bears the full name of King Samudra-Gupta written in two lines on either side of the javelin. We follow Kumar in describing this type as the javelin type (with the spearhead often being struck off flan). Another theory is that the king holds a staff-sceptre.

VG-Fine, with an even distribution of details and excellent contrast.

Ex Chand Collection British Museum no 1.9.19.