Rajaraja Chola I Copper Coin – Paadam Footprint & Fish Type, 985–1014 AD M85

A scarce copper issue of Rajaraja Chola I, one of the greatest rulers of the Imperial Chola dynasty, who reigned from 985–1014 AD.

This is the distinctive Paadam or footprint type, one of the special varieties associated with Rajaraja Chola’s coinage.

The front shows the familiar standing royal figure, together with a sacred footprint or Paadam symbol and a small fish motif. The footprint has traditionally been interpreted as Vishnupada, and this special issue has been associated by numismatists with the Chola expansion into the Kerala/Chera region. Similar Indian footprint varieties are also known with a fish as an additional symbol.

The reverse carries a seated royal figure, with traces of the Nagari legend “Sri Rajaraja”, identifying the ruler.

Unlike the much more frequently encountered standard Rajaraja standing/seated figure coins, the Paadam varieties form an interesting specialised group within Imperial Chola coinage. A footprint-type Rajaraja copper described as rare by Classical Numismatic Gallery realised ₹5,700 in an earlier specialist auction.

Dynasty: Imperial Cholas
Ruler: Rajaraja Chola I
Reign: 985–1014 AD
Region: South India / Tamilakam
Metal: Copper
Type: Paadam / Footprint & Fish type
Front: Standing king with sacred footprint and associated fish symbol
Reverse: Seated king with Nagari legend “Sri Rajaraja”
Condition: Fine to Very Fine; circulated with natural dark patina
Rarity: Scarce special type