Pre-Gupta Hindu Kingdoms of Central India, Nagas of Padmavati Ganapati Naga, Minted between early 3rd century-mid-4th century, Denomination: AE Kakani, Composition: Copper, Obv: a humped bull facing left, Rev: brahmi legend ? maharaja sri gane” Weight: 1.41 grams, 9 mm, (W. Pieper # 1057), Extremely Fine, Very rare.

“This coin is exceptionally rare, as issues of this dynasty are usually round and very light. This example is slightly heavier, distinctly square on all sides, with a boldly struck bull and sharply legible inscription, making it especially remarkable collectible”

Ganapati Naga was a ruler of the Nagas of Padmavati, an important Hindu dynasty that rose to power in central India during the transitional phase between the decline of the Kushanas and the emergence of the Gupta Empire. Ruling roughly in the early 3rd to mid-4th century CE, Ganapati Naga governed from Padmavati (modern Pawaya, Madhya Pradesh), a key political and commercial center. The Nagas asserted their sovereignty through independent coinage, religious patronage, and the use of the royal title “Maharaja.” The humped bull depicted on their copper Kakani coins symbolizes Shaivite affiliation, strength, and royal authority, reflecting the dynasty’s Hindu identity. Brahmi inscriptions on these coins show the continuity of indigenous administrative traditions. Ganapati Naga is also historically significant as one of the Naga rulers subdued by Samudragupta, marking the incorporation of central Indian powers into the expanding Gupta polity.

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