Satavahana Empire (2nd century BCE – 3rd century CE) Sri Pulumavi 1 Drachm Ancient India Coin

Obverse: Elephant standing right with trunk raised. Brahmi Legend above

Lettering: Siri Pudumavisa

Reverse: Satavahana or Ujjain symbol consisting of four large orbs connected by crossing lines.

Sri Pulumavi (110–152 CE) was one of the prominent rulers of the Satavahana Empire, which flourished in the Deccan region of India. He was the son and successor of the famous ruler Gautamiputra Satakarni. Under his reign, the empire maintained its prosperity, trade, and maritime connections with Rome and Southeast Asia. The coin, featuring an elephant with a raised trunk, symbolizes strength and royal power, while the reverse with the Ujjain symbol reflects Satavahana authority and religious significance. His rule marked a period of stability, artistic growth, and cultural expansion across central and southern India.

The Satavahana Dynasty (2nd century BCE – 3rd century CE) was one of the earliest Indian empires to rule the Deccan region, with capitals at Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati. Founded by Simuka, the dynasty reached its height under rulers like Gautamiputra Satakarni and Sri Pulumavi. They promoted trade, Buddhism, and Sanskrit-Prakrit culture. Satavahanas maintained strong inland and maritime trade links with Rome and Southeast Asia. Their coins, mostly made of lead, silver, and copper, featured symbols like elephants, ships, Ujjain symbols, and portraits of kings, reflecting political power and commercial prosperity across the Deccan plateau.