Maitraka Dynasty of Vallabhi Bhattaraka c. 470–500 CE Silver 1 Drachm

Reverse: Trident with curved prongs at the center, surrounded by a Brahmi legend reading “Rajno Mahakshatrapa Parmaditya Bhakta Mahasamanta Sharva Sarvabhataraka,” identifying the ruler and his high-ranking royal titles.

Bhattaraka was the founder of the Maitraka dynasty of Vallabhi in western India and established a powerful regional kingdom following the decline of Gupta authority in the region. His early coinage retained important elements of the Western Kshatrapa monetary tradition, particularly the royal portrait and satrapal cap, while introducing distinctive Maitraka legends and religious symbolism. The trident on the reverse, together with the extensive Brahmi inscription, reflects the political authority and cultural environment of fifth-century Gujarat. These early Maitraka drachms are important witnesses to the transition from Western Kshatrapa to Maitraka monetary traditions.

Coinage Note: The silver Drachm of Bhattaraka is an important early Maitraka issue, combining a Western Kshatrapa-style royal portrait with a prominent trident and an extensive Brahmi legend. Catalogued as Mitchiner AC #4892, the type is highly sought after for its early date, historical importance, distinctive design, and rarity. Its Numista rarity index of 94 further reflects the scarcity of this remarkable Maitraka coinage.