Beautiful South India Coin – portraits of Lord Rama and Lakshmana with a sacred lingam reverse from the Shivaganga Raja Sasivarna Devar

Shivaganga Rajas, South India, Ruler: Sasivarna Devar (r. 1730–1750 CE), Denomination: 1 Kasu, Composition: Copper, Weight: 3.16 grams, Diameter: 12.92 mm, Reference: MSI# 960, about very fine, scarce.

Obverse: Two deities standing with bow in hand – Rama & Lakshmana.

Reverse: Lingam with garland surrounded with dots.

Sasivarna Devar was the founder-ruler of the Shivaganga line in South India during the early 18th century. He rose to power after resisting the domination of the Madurai Nayaks and later came into conflict with the Nawab of Arcot, a Muslim ruler who governed the Carnatic under Mughal authority. Although the Mughal Empire did not directly rule deep South India, its influence reached the region through the Arcot Nawabs, leading to repeated military confrontations. Sasivarna Devar also faced tensions with Muslim governors and soldiers allied to the Nawab, yet at times maintained pragmatic relations when political necessity demanded it. His reign was marked by continuous warfare, territorial consolidation, and assertion of Hindu kingship in a contested political landscape.

This copper 1 Kasu coin reflects that assertion clearly. The obverse depicting Rama and Lakshmana symbolizes dharmic rule and royal legitimacy, while the reverse lingam with garland highlights Shaivite devotion. Such coins were used for daily transactions and remain scarce survivals of Shivaganga’s early sovereignty.