INDIA, Post-Mauryan (Malwa). Ujjain. AE (Bronze, 15 mm, 3.70 g), circa 2nd century BC. Shiva as Lord Mahakal standing facing, holding solar standard in his right hand and kalasha (sacred pot) in his left; on the left, traces of tree in railing; in upper right field, solar disc above taurine. Rev. Two conjoined four-orbed Ujjain symbols. Cf. Narendra Kothari, Ujjayini Coins, 40 (for reverse). Rare. Areas of weakness, otherwise, about very fine.


One compelling theory proclaims that the enigmatic Ujjain symbol represents the geographical location of the city on the junction of important trade routes. In any case, this is the only type known to show two such symbols on the reverse.