Ancient Kushan Empire – Vima Kadphises
Copper Tetradrachm | Shiva & Nandi Type | 16.75 g | c. 105–130 CE
A remarkable large copper tetradrachm of Vima Kadphises, one of the most important early rulers of the Kushan Empire. Dating to approximately 105–130 CE, this substantial 16.75-gram coin is a striking example of the cultural and religious synthesis represented in Kushan imperial coinage.
The coin combines Hellenistic, Iranian and Indian artistic traditions, with the Kushan ruler depicted performing a religious offering on the obverse and Lord Shiva with Nandi prominently represented on the reverse.
Obverse
The obverse depicts King Vima Kadphises standing facing left, dressed in royal attire and performing a ritual offering over a small fire altar.
The surrounding Greek legend identifies the ruler and reflects the continuation of Hellenistic numismatic conventions within the Kushan Empire.
The image of the king personally performing a sacrifice is an important representation of royal authority and religious devotion.
Reverse
The reverse features Lord Shiva standing, holding his characteristic trident (trishula), with his sacred bull Nandi beside or behind him.
The surrounding Kharosthi inscription reads:
“Maharaja rajadhiraja sarvaloga isvarasa mahesvarasa”
This conveys the ruler’s exalted titulature and association with Maheshvara (Shiva).
The appearance of Shiva and Nandi on imperial coinage is particularly significant and represents one of the earliest major manifestations of anthropomorphic Shiva imagery on Kushan coins.
Coin Details
Empire: Kushan Empire
Ruler: Vima Kadphises
Reign: c. 105–130 CE
Period: 2nd Century CE
Denomination: Copper Tetradrachm
Metal: Copper
Weight: 16.75 g
Obverse: Vima Kadphises sacrificing at an altar
Reverse: Shiva with trident and Nandi
Obverse Legend: Greek
Reverse Legend: Kharosthi
Religious Association: Shiva / Maheshvara
Type: Standard Issue Copper Tetradrachm
Historical Background
Vima Kadphises was one of the most important early Kushan rulers and played a major role in consolidating Kushan power across Central Asia and northern India.
The Kushan Empire occupied a strategically important position along major trade routes connecting Central Asia, India and the wider ancient world. Its coinage reflects this cosmopolitan environment, combining artistic and religious traditions from several cultures.
Vima Kadphises is also particularly important in the development of large copper and gold Kushan coinage, with substantial copper denominations circulating throughout the empire.
Religious & Cultural Significance
One of the most fascinating aspects of this coin is the deliberate combination of different cultural traditions.
The Greek legend and artistic conventions on the obverse reflect the Hellenistic legacy of the region, while the Kharosthi inscription and depiction of Shiva and Nandi demonstrate the strong incorporation of Indian religious traditions.
The title Maheshvara, meaning “Great Lord” and associated with Shiva, is especially significant. It reflects the Kushan ruler’s connection with the Shaivite religious tradition while demonstrating the remarkably diverse religious environment of the Kushan Empire.
Numismatic Significance
The large 16.75-gram copper denomination represents the substantial monetary standards used by the Kushans. Such large copper coins were important for everyday commercial transactions and complemented the empire’s prestigious gold coinage.
The combination of a historical ruler, bilingual cultural traditions, Greek and Kharosthi legends, Shiva, Nandi and a large copper flan gives this coin exceptional numismatic interest.
Collector’s Appeal
An outstanding addition to collections specialising in:
- Kushan Empire Coinage
- Vima Kadphises Coins
- Ancient Indian Coins
- Ancient Copper Tetradrachms
- Kushan Copper Coinage
- Shiva & Nandi Coins
- Ancient Hindu Coinage
- Kharosthi Script Coins
- Greek-Legend Ancient Coins
- Central Asian & Indian Ancient Coinage
Age of Coin: Approximately 1,900 years old.
A remarkable 16.75-gram Kushan copper tetradrachm of Vima Kadphises, showcasing the fascinating meeting of Kushan imperial power, Hellenistic tradition and ancient Indian Shaivite iconography through the powerful depiction of Lord Shiva and Nandi.
