A Rare Variety of Audumbara Coins
Summary
This note examines a little‑known copper coin attributed to the Audumbara tribe, which inhabited the Beas–Ravi region of ancient Punjab. The coin bears a Brahmi legend interpreted as "Bhagavata Mahadeva" and a standing figure wielding a trident and battle‑axe. By comparing this coin with other Audumbara issues, where similar legends appear in both Brahmi and Kharoshthi scripts, the author argues that it belongs to the Audumbara series. The standing figure and weapons resemble motifs on coins of Audumbara rulers with names ending in "Mitra" and on coins of Sivadisa, Rudradasa, Dharaghosa and Mahadeva. The obverse features an unusual symbol, perhaps a lingam, which also appears countermarked on a coin of Uttamadatta of Mathura. The author suggests that Mahadeva, the issuer of the Audumbara coin, restruck Uttamadatta’s coins, implying hostile relations between the Audumbara leader and the Mathura prince. Through numismatic analysis, the article concludes that this rare variety should be added to the Audumbara series and that it illuminates interactions between the Audumbara and neighbouring polities.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
The coin bearing the legend ""Bhagavata Mahadeva"" and a combined trident and battle‑axe is likely an Audumbara issue struck by a leader named Mahadeva. Its similarity to other coins and the presence of a distinctive symbol, also found on a coin of Uttamadatta, suggest that Mahadeva clashed with the Mathura prince and restruck his coinage. This discovery adds a new type to the Audumbara series and highlights the complex inter‑tribal dynamics of early northern India.