INDIA, Post-Mauryan (Malwa). Ujjain. AE (Bronze, 17 mm, 5.92 g). Countermark of Lord Mahakal, standing front, holding stick in his right hand and kalasha (sacred pot) in his left. Rev. Bull standing right. Pieper -. Very rare with this countermark. Light scratches, otherwise, fine.


Lord Mahakal ('beyond time/death' in Sanskrit) is a particularly interesting manifestation of Shiva. In this manifestation, he once saved the residents of Ujjain by destroying their enemies. The Ujjainis thanked him by building a magnificent temple. Today, it is believed Lord Shiva still resides in the temple as Mahakal in a Lingam. This temple is therefore one of the most sacred temples in India.