Satavahana Dynasty Central India Andhra–Vidarbha Region Hollow Cross (Yagnakunda) & Tree-in-Railing Cast Copper Coin

Satavahana Dynasty, Period: c. 200 BCE Early Phase, Region: Central India Andhra–Vidarbha zone, Denomination: AE Unit, Metal: Cast Copper,  Weight: 3.06 grams, Diameter: 12.34 mm, References: Unlisted in KM / Early Satavahana series, About Fine, Very Scarce.

Obverse: Hollow Cross (Yagnakunda / Ujjain-type symbol).

Reverse: Sacred Tree-in-Railing motif.

This early Satavahana copper coin represents the formative phase of Deccan coinage, where religious symbolism and regional identity were deeply intertwined. The hollow cross on the obverse—often interpreted as a Yagnakunda (fire altar) or an early Ujjain-associated emblem—reflects ritual significance and sacred geometry. The reverse tree-in-railing, a pan-Indian symbol of fertility and sanctity, likely alludes to sacred groves or Bodhi symbolism. Such cast copper issues are characteristic of early Satavahana circulation across Central India, Andhra, Maharashtra, and Vidarbha, marking local authority, trade networks, and evolving iconographic traditions of the 2nd–1st century BCE.