Gupta Dynasty – Skandagupta alias Kramaditya
Silver Drachma | Garuda Type | c. 455–467 CE
A rare and historically important silver drachma of Skandagupta, one of the most powerful rulers of the Gupta Empire. Also known by the title Kramaditya, Skandagupta ruled approximately 455–467 CE and is remembered for successfully defending the Gupta Empire against major external threats during a crucial period of its history.
This attractive Garuda Type silver coin, weighing 2.2 grams and measuring approximately 12.57 mm, is graded around Extremely Fine, with strong design detail and an appealing overall appearance.
Obverse
The obverse features the side profile portrait of King Skandagupta facing left.
Surrounding the portrait is the royal Brahmi legend:
“Paramabhagavata Maharajadhiraja Skandagupta Kramadityah”
The legend identifies the ruler and incorporates the important religious title Paramabhagavata, reflecting Skandagupta's association with Vaishnavism and devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Reverse
The reverse presents a magnificent Garuda standing facing forward with wings spread, occupying the central field.
A sun symbol appears to the left, while the surrounding Brahmi legend continues around the design.
Garuda, the divine mount of Lord Vishnu, was an important symbol of the Gupta imperial dynasty and became one of the most recognisable motifs of Gupta coinage.
Coin Details
Dynasty: Gupta Dynasty
Ruler: Skandagupta
Title: Kramaditya
Reign: c. 455–467 CE
Period: 5th Century CE
Metal: Silver
Denomination: Drachma
Weight: 2.20 g
Diameter: 12.57 mm
Type: Garuda Type
Obverse: Bust of Skandagupta facing left
Reverse: Garuda facing with wings spread; sun symbol at left
Legend: “Paramabhagavata Maharajadhiraja Skandagupta Kramadityah”
Script: Brahmi
Condition: About Extremely Fine
Rarity: Rare
Reference: TOTGE, S. Kumar, Garuda Type, p. 354
Historical Significance
Skandagupta was the son and successor of Kumaragupta I and inherited the Gupta Empire during a period of considerable political pressure. His reign is particularly notable for the Gupta Empire's resistance against the Hunas, making him one of the last great rulers of the Gupta imperial period.
The Gupta era is often regarded as one of the great classical periods of Indian civilisation, associated with major achievements in art, literature, science and architecture. Gupta coinage is equally celebrated for its artistic quality, sophisticated portraiture and extensive use of religious symbolism.
The Garuda motif on this silver drachma is especially significant. Garuda was closely associated with the Gupta royal house and served as a powerful emblem of the dynasty's Vaishnava identity and imperial authority.
The Brahmi legend identifying Skandagupta as Maharajadhiraja (“Great King of Kings”) further reinforces the imperial character of the issue.
Collector's Appeal
An exceptional acquisition for collectors specialising in:
• Gupta Empire Coinage
• Skandagupta Coins
• Ancient Indian Silver Coins
• Gupta Silver Drachmas
• Garuda Type Coins
• Brahmi Script Coins
• Ancient Indian Portrait Coins
• Vaishnava / Hindu Iconography
• 5th Century Indian Coins
• Rare Gupta Numismatics
Age of Coin: Approximately 1,560–1,570 years old.
A rare and attractive Extremely Fine Gupta silver drachma, combining a portrait of one of the empire's most important rulers with the iconic Garuda emblem and an extensive Brahmi royal legend. A highly desirable piece for a serious collection of Gupta and classical Indian coinage.
