Sri Sahassa Malla Kingdom of Polonnaruwa (Ceylon Chola) Copper Massa 1200-1202 CE

Ceylon Chola, Kingdom of Polonnaruwa, King Sahassa Malla, r. 1200-1202 AD, Denomination: AE Massa, Metal: Copper, Weight: 4.16 grams, Diameter: 20 mm, Obv: Standing king, lamp at left, globes at right, Rev: King seated right with left arm raised, 4-line Nagari legend below arm ‘Sri ma sa hasa malla’. Reference: Mitch WI#840-841, Codrington# 81, Superb strikes, Extremely Fine, Scarce.

Sahassa Malla, known as “the lion-hearted king,” ruled the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka from 1200 to 1202 CE. He succeeded Queen Lilavati, who was removed by her ministers. Sahassa Malla was the younger brother of the powerful king Nissanka Malla and claimed royal authority through that lineage. His short reign was marked by attempts to legitimize his rule and continue his brother’s legacy. However, his power weakened due to internal conflicts and lack of strong support. He was eventually overthrown by General Ayasmantha and replaced by Queen Kalyanavati, ending his brief and turbulent rule.