I selected this piece for my hoard of inexpensive Indian coins... I absolutely love the fabric and shape of the coin. Who could resist a wonderful lion and on a coin? India, Jammu mint Chauhans of Ranastambhapura Jaitra Simha AR Drachm struck c.1275 AD 13.7 mm x 4.47 g Obv. Lion standing left within double dot border. Rev.Within circle of dots, three line Devanagari legend- JAI/TA SI DE/VA sun and moon flanking the letter on the third line. ref: Deyell 366 ** "This type has been incorrectly attributed by Mitchiner to the Pallava king Narasimha (see MNI 696). " Some background from the seller's listing... "According to the Rajput bards, Chauhan is one of the four Agnikula or 'fire sprung' clans, deriving their origin from a sacrificial fire-pit (agnikunda) at Mount Abu to fight against the Asuras or demons. Chauhan is also one of the 36 ruling races of the Rajputs. Agnikula origin was perpetuated by later manuscripts of Raso from the 16th century onwards. James tod was of the view that Chauhans were the most valiant of the Agnikulas. According a number of scholars Chauhans were originally Gurjaras and Chauhan was prominent clan of the Gujjars (or Gurjars)."
I take it that its one of them darkly toned pieces? Hard to make out looks pretty cool. Lion looks like a dog.
Man, you are really moving in ancient India. I am afraid this is probably where you and I part ways on our collecting habits. While I completely respect and admire collecting in this area, I simply have not seemed to be able to gain any traction in interest in them. I am sure you might say the same with Chinese Cash. Interesting piece though.
