Sangam Chera Copper Coin – Elephant & Bow-Arrow Type, Ancient Chera M67

Sangam Chera Copper Coin – Elephant & Bow-Arrow Type, Ancient Chera M67 (1.76gm)

An ancient copper coin attributed to the Chera kingdom of the Sangam period, one of the three major early Tamil dynasties of ancient South India.

Chera copper coins are well known for the use of the bow and arrow, the traditional dynastic emblem of the Cheras. Related varieties also feature an elephant together with symbols such as the ankush, wheel, standard, tree and other early Tamil motifs.

This specimen is struck on a characteristic square copper flan. The surviving design is heavily worn from circulation, but traces of the original symbolic devices remain visible. The dark brown surface and irregular strike give the coin the typical appearance of an ancient South Indian copper issue.

Dynasty: Chera
Period: Sangam Age
Region: Ancient Tamilakam / Karur–Vanchi
Approximate date: c. 100–200 AD, subject to exact variety
Metal: Copper / copper alloy
Type: Elephant / Bow-and-Arrow type
Obverse: Heavily worn traces of elephant/symbolic design
Reverse: Traces of the Chera bow-and-arrow emblem
Condition: Heavily circulated / worn
Attribution: Sangam Chera, exact catalogue variety not confirmed