INDIA, Mauryan Empire. Karshapana (Silver, 12x13 mm, 3.54 g), circa 2nd century BC. Three punches, including three human figures, fish and three ovals in a row. Rev. Three punches, including triskeles, three ovals in a row and a symbol shaped like an hourglass. Gupta & Hardaker, series VI, 589. Very fine.


There is some debate over the identification of the three human figures in the upper obverse punch. One compelling theory states that they represent the mythical heroes of the Ramayana: Ram, Sita and Lakshman.