This type of coin is very rare and is styled similar to the Lyrist type of Samudragupta. It is possible the Chandragupta was not musically talented and therefore did not continue with the Lyrist type, but is well known as a patron of literature and drama. The term 'rupakriti' shown on obverse of Variety A refers to one who is well versed on the type of drama. (rupa-kritin - one who is an expert in Dramatics).
There are 1 coin each in the National Museum Delhi, Lucknow Museum, Prince of Wales Museum, Mumbai and the British Museum.
The King is shown seated bare chest on a high backed couch.He holds a flower in his right hand and left hand is resting on the couch.A spittoon is shown below the King.The reverse depicts the goddess seated on a couch holding a long stemmed lotus flower.
This type has 5 distinct varieties:
VAR A: Legend begins at VIII, Deva Sri maharajadhiraja Sri Chandraguptasya Vikramadityasya. In this variety, in addition to the legend around the coin, there is also the word 'rupakriti' below the couch. In this variety, the Reverse shows the Goddess seated on a throne, lotus in left hand and right hand is empty. Legend is on the left Srivikkramah
VAR B: Legend same as above, but is abbreviated - does not include the word Vikramadityasya. Reverse legend is on the right.
VAR C: same as Variety A, but no 'rupakriti' on obverse. Reverse legend same as Variety A - on left.
VAR D: same as Variety C, but right hand of Goddess holds a ribbon.
VAR E:Legend starts at I …Paramabhagvata-maha-sri-Chandraguptah.Nimbate Goddess is seated on a backless couch.She holds a long stemmed flower in her left hand.She with her right hand at her back on the couch, while her right leg is bent and resting on the couch. Her left left is shown stretched outward.Her hair is in a bun above her head.She is adorned with armlet and heavy bangles, with big loop earrings, wears a pearl necklace.Flowing ends of her garment are shown on either side.The couch also shows a pillow beside the Goddess very similar to the Lyrist type of Samudragupta.
Legend on the right is Vikramadityah
Weight:7.69 gms
Images and design copyright Shivlee Collection
A comprehensive collection of rare gold coins from the Gupta Empire of India.
