Balpur Copper-Coins of Pratapamalladeva
Summary
Balpur, a village in Bilaspur District, Chhattisgarh, has yielded significant archaeological finds, including copper coins attributed to Pratapamalladeva, a 12th-century Haihaya prince of Ratanpur. Discovered between 1919 and 1927, these coins—ranging in size from small to large—feature inscriptions like "Srimatpratapamalladeva" and depictions of lions or Hanuman, confirming their attribution. Twelve coins were recovered, all but one found at Balpur. Weights vary: small (1.25 misas), middle (2.2–2.5 misas), and larger (3–7 misas). Comparisons with coins of Ratnadeva and other Haihaya princes reveal consistent lion motifs and weight discrepancies attributed to coin condition. The findings corroborate Pratapamalladeva’s reign (c. 1250–1293 CE), as per historical records, and suggest Balpur’s historical prominence as a rival to Ratanpur. Additional artifacts, including small gold rings (vāchasanīyas) and undated square copper pieces, were also unearthed, though their significance remains unclear. The study underscores Balpur’s role in medieval trade and royal commemoration, with coin iconography and inscriptions aligning with 12th-century Haihaya dynasty traditions.
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Conclusion
The discovery of Pratapamalladeva's copper coins at Balpur offers significant insights into the economic and political landscape of the region during the 11th century CE. These coins, previously unattested, provide tangible evidence of Pratapamalladeva's rule and his association with the Haihaya dynasty of Ratanpur. The iconography, including lion motifs and martial symbols, reflects contemporary cultural and religious influences. The findings challenge earlier assumptions about the geographical extent of Haihaya authority and highlight Balpur's historical prominence as a rival to Ratanpur. The coins' discovery underscores the importance of numismatic evidence in reconstructing regional histories and clarifies Pratapamalladeva's identity, resolving prior scholarly debates. This contribution enriches our understanding of the Kalachuri period's political dynamics and territorial governance in central India.