Sautams

Sautams, also known as Sautams coins or Sautams currency, were a type of ancient Indian coinage that originated during the 4th century BCE. The term "Sautams" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Suvarna," which means gold. These coins were primarily made of gold and were widely used during the Mauryan Empire and subsequent dynasties.

Sautams were typically round in shape and had a diameter of about 1.5 to 2 centimeters. They were often stamped with various symbols, inscriptions, or images of animals and deities, which varied depending on the ruling dynasty and region. The weight of Sautams coins was standardized, usually around 128 grains or 8.3 grams, making them a reliable medium of exchange.

The Mauryan Empire, under the reign of Emperor Ashoka, extensively used Sautams as a means of currency. These coins played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce within the empire and with neighboring regions. The widespread use of Sautams also helped in the standardization of weights and measures across the empire.

After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, various regional kingdoms and dynasties continued to mint Sautams coins, often with their own unique designs and inscriptions. The use of Sautams gradually declined with the advent of new coinage systems, such as the Roman denarius and the Islamic dinar, which gained prominence in the Indian subcontinent.

Today, Sautams coins are highly valued by numismatists and historians for their historical significance and artistic designs. They provide valuable insights into the economic, political, and cultural aspects of ancient India. Many Sautams coins are preserved in museums and private collections around the world.