1141

MALAY STATES: SET of 3 tin units, 11th-14th century

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / World Coins - Asia & Middle-East Start Price:80.00 USD Estimated At:100.00 - 150.00 USD
MALAY STATES: SET of 3 tin units, 11th-14th century
SOLD
280.00USD+ (56.00) buyer's premium + applicable fees & taxes.
This item SOLD at 2022 Jul 12 @ 12:15UTC-7 : PDT/MST
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MALAY STATES: SET of 3 tin units, 11th-14th century, weighing 3.80g, 3.46g, and 2.80g, each with the Tamil letter ka or ta preceded by two C-shaped symbols on one side and an uncertain character (sri?) within circular border on the other, bold lettering, R. These mysterious tin Tamil coins have been found on both sides of the Strait of Malacca, in the same areas as the anepigraphic type with lion and dagger (see our Auction 34, Lot 1159). The use of Tamil is peculiar for this region though not surprising, as merchants from southern India have long visited the Malay Archipelago for its spices and incense. The Chola Empire in particular conducted both trade and raids on the wealthy Srivijaya Empire, culminating in the sack of its capital Palembang and the capture of its king, Sangrama Vijayatunggavarman. Thus, these pieces are perhaps issued by one of the several Tamil merchant guilds established throughout the area.