The Lyrist coins of Samudragupta proclaim the King as an accomplished Lyrist. Based on the historical evidence from his coins, it is easy to see that Samudragupta was a highly talented King.
Variety A
COINS STRUCK ON A WIDE FLAN (2CM OR MORE) AND THERE IS NO SYMBOL ON THE REVERSE
Samudragupta Lyrist Type
OBVERSE: King sitting on a high backed couch, hand resting on a pillow, playing the lyre (vina). Both hands are strumming the strings of the Vina, and his feet are resting on a stool. The letter si for siddham shown on the foot stool. This letter 'si' is also shown on the Asvamedha coins.
This coin is stuck on a wide flan, very distinctive of coins from Mint A2, and the design is very bold and with refined features. King is shown in large loop earrings, pearls in the hair wearing a pearl necklace. 7.5 gms.
Legend starting at 1 O'clock Maharajadhiraja Sri Samudragupta
Reverse: Goddess with halo, sitting on a decorated wicker stool, facing left, holding a diadem in her right hand. Samudraguptah
It is important to note that the coins of this Variety do not show any symbol on the reverse of the coins.
COINS STRUCK ON A SMALL FLAN(1.8CM OR LESS) AND THERE IS A SYMBOL ON THE REVERSE
Samudragupta Lyrist Type coin
Obverse: The King is portrayed as an older and talented king playing the Vina - Lyre - King is shown sitting on a wooden stool, with lathe turned legs, with strings of the vina being plyed by his fingers. Legend: Maharajadhiraja-sri-Samudraguptah
Reverse: Goddess with halo sitting on wicker stool holding a cornicupae of flowers and ribbons. Symbol in upper left corner. Legend: Samudraguptah
