1 Chuckram of Princely State Travancore – Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma II 1931-1947 AD Bronze Coin

Travancore, Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma II (1931–1947 CE), Denomination: 1 Chuckram, Metal: Bronze, Weight: 7.43 grams, Diameter: Approximately 27 mm, References: KM#60, Grade: Extremely Fine, Scarce.

Obverse: Bust of Bala Rama Varma facing right, with the English legend “BALA RAMA VARMA MAHARAJA OF TRAVANCORE” surrounding.

Reverse: Sacred Sankha (conch shell) within a wreath, surrounded by bilingual legends in English and Malayalam reading “Travancore – One Chuckram”.

Issued during the reign of Maharaja Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma II, this bronze 1 Chuckram represents one of the final regular coinage issues of the Princely State of Travancore before its merger into independent India. The obverse features the right-facing portrait of the Maharaja, reflecting the influence of modern portrait-style coinage, while the reverse displays the sacred Sankha (conch shell), the royal emblem of Travancore and a symbol of Lord Vishnu, encircled by bilingual English and Malayalam legends. The combination of Western-style portraiture with traditional Hindu symbolism reflects the unique cultural and political identity of the Travancore State during the late princely era.

Coinage Note: The Travancore Bronze 1 Chuckram is one of the most iconic issues of the Travancore State, combining an elegant royal portrait with the sacred conch emblem in a bilingual design. Its historical significance, attractive artwork, and association with the last ruling Maharaja of Travancore make it a highly collectible coin among enthusiasts of Indian Princely State numismatics.