Ramayana Series Coinage of Thanjavur Kingdom – Raghunatha Nayaka – Copper Kasu Coin Early 17th Century CE

Obverse: Depiction of scenes and figures from the Ramayana, representing Lord Rama and his divine virtues.

Reverse: Image of King Raghunatha Nayaka in Anjali Mudra (posture of reverence), symbolizing his devotion to Lord Rama.

The Ramayana Series coin of Raghunatha Nayaka (r. 1600–1634 CE) from the Kingdom of Thanjavur reflects the deep religious devotion and artistic excellence of the Nayak period. Raghunatha Nayaka, a great devotee of Lord Rama, issued these coins to honor the Ramayana and its divine ideals. According to legend, idols of Rama and Sita were discovered during the excavation of a tank at Darasuram, inspiring the king to construct three grand Rama temples at Kumbakonam, Srirangam, and Rameswaram. The obverse of the coin depicts Lord Rama and scenes from the epic, while the reverse shows the king in Anjali Mudra, expressing devotion and humility. These copper Kasu coins are rare relics symbolizing the fusion of faith, art, and royal legacy in South Indian numismatic history.