Extremely Rare 1 Karshapana Silver Punch Marked Mauryan Empire Coin | India's First Coin of Chandragupt Maurya | Ancient India Magadh Dynasty Collectible Coins # A248

Description

Rare silver punch marked Karshapana of ancient India, from the Magadha - Mauryan series. The coin is struck on an irregular rectangular silver flan and carries several individually applied symbol punches on the obverse, including a sun-type symbol and a six-armed symbol, with faint further punches and banker's marks on the reverse. Such coins are among the earliest coinages of the Indian subcontinent and were produced by cutting sheet silver to weight and then applying the punches.

• Denomination: Karshapana (silver punch marked unit)
• Period: Ancient India, Magadha Janapada - Mauryan Empire; no date is carried on the coin
• Metal: Silver
• Size: approximately 20.7 x 11.8 mm, rectangular flan
• Design: multiple punched symbols on the obverse, faint punches and test marks on the reverse
• Condition: Fine, with even wear, toning and surface marks consistent with age

The images show the actual item the buyer will receive.

Step back to the dawn of Indian numismatics with this extraordinary silver Karshapana, a tangible relic from the formidable Mauryan Empire and the earlier Magadha Janapada. Struck from high-grade silver, this ancient specimen represents the subcontinent's earliest official currency, circulated during the foundational era of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Unlike modern minted money, this coin was meticulously crafted by clipping irregular sheet silver to a precise weight standard, then hand-stamping it with distinct individual punches—most notably the ancient sun symbol and the intricate six-armed mark on the obverse, accompanied by historical banker's test marks on the reverse. Graded in Fine condition, it displays authentic cabinet toning and honest wear that whisper tales of ancient Silk Road trade. For serious collectors of world history, ancient Asian antiquities, or empire coinage, this rare artifact offers a profound connection to antiquity. It is an exceptional centerpiece that anchors any elite collection, bridging the gap between myth and documented history. The exact piece photographed is what you will receive.