5th century copper coin discovered at Banavasi

On one side of the coin, there is an inscription ‘Srimanaragi’ in Kannada script and on the other side, the symbol of Ujjayini is inscribed, says Dr Gopal, director, Department of Archaeology and Ancient History.

An ancient copper coin dating back to 5th century with an inscription in the Kannada script has been discovered at Banavasi, which was once the capital of Kadamba rulers.

The coin was discovered recently by numismatist Mukunda Prabhu of Mangalore.

On one side of the coin, there is an inscription ‘Srimanaragi’ in Kannada script and on the other side, the symbol of Ujjayini is inscribed, says Dr Gopal, director, Department of Archaeology and Ancient History.

According to him, the letter ‘Srimanaragi’ is perhaps the name of a king or a title given to somebody. This is one of the oldest copper coins discovered having the inscription in Kannada script, he says.

Notably, it is believed that Banavasi had a ‘Tankashale’ which produced coins having Kannada script.

The discovery has come as an evidence to strengthen the movement seeking classical status for Kannada.

Dr Gopal and South India Numismatist Association Secretary Dr A V Narasimhamurthy have congratulated Mukunda Prabhu.