Satavahanas, Siri Satakani, Newase-Paithan region, Heavy Weight Lead, 26.60g, “Gajalakshmi” type, Obv: Goddess Lakshmi, standing on lotus, and being lustrated by elephants on lotus on either side; Brahmi legend “(Raño) Siri Satakanisa” above, Rev: Tree with broad leaves within a railing, triangle headed standard to left, river (wavy line) below (MCSI# 139). Extremely fine for type, extremely rare.
The ‘Abhisheka of Lakshmi’ type coins are a Satavahana mystic. Some of the heaviest Satavahana coins were struck in this type. The iconic form was very popular as evident from its other representations in ancient art, like the motifs on the railings and gateways at the stupas of Sanchi. Associated with plenitude and fertility, the depiction probably marked a high point of Siri Satakani’s regal career.