Thanjavur Nayak Dynasty Ramayana Series Coin Raghunatha Nayak Copper Kasu

Obverse: Depicts a standing figure associated with the Ramayana series, surrounded by a decorative border of raised dots and stylized motifs.

Reverse: Features a standing human figure with raised arms and surrounding symbolic details, characteristic of the religious imagery found on Thanjavur Nayak copper Kasu coins.

Raghunatha Nayak ruled the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom from approximately 1600 to 1634 CE. He was a notable patron of literature, music, temple architecture, and Hindu religious traditions. During his reign, Thanjavur developed as an important centre of South Indian cultural activity. Raghunatha Nayak was a devotee of Lord Rama, and the Ramayana inspired a series of copper coins associated with his reign. His minister, Govinda Dikshitar, was connected with major temple-building and renovation projects, including work associated with the Ramaswamy Temple at Kumbakonam. These coins reflect the religious and artistic traditions of the Nayak period.

Coinage Note: This copper Kasu belongs to the Ramayana-themed coinage associated with Raghunatha Nayak of Thanjavur (1600-1634 CE). Its figurative designs reflect the religious symbolism and artistic style of the Nayak period. Such coins are notable examples of South Indian temple culture and devotional imagery expressed through regional currency. The precise denomination, weight, mint, and identification of the figures should be confirmed against a specialist numismatic reference.