Madurai Nayaks Shiva Parvathi Type Copper Kasu Coin

Nayaks of Madurai (South India), Period: 1529-1736 CE, Shiva Parvathi Portrait Copper Coin, Denomination: 1 Kasu, Weight: 3.50 grm, Diameter: 15 mm, Obverse: seated shiva parvathi couple, Reverse: Sri Vee Ra in telugu script, about very fine, very scarce.

The Madurai Nayaks were a Telugu-origin dynasty that ruled much of present-day Tamil Nadu from around 1529 to 1736, with Madurai as their capital. Founded by Vishwanatha Nayaka, the dynasty emerged from the Balija warrior clans of Andhra Pradesh. The dynasty is renowned for its contributions to art, architecture, temple restoration, and administrative reforms. Their distinctive coinage provides valuable insight into the religious beliefs, artistic traditions, and cultural identity of South India during the Nayak era. This 1 Kasu coin shows Shiva-Parvathi seated, symbolizing divine unity. The reverse bears “Sri Vee Ra” in Telugu script, reflecting Nayaka patronage of religion and culture.