Sullanas

Sullanas is a term used to refer to a type of ancient Indian coinage. These coins were primarily used in India during the Gupta Empire period, roughly spanning the 3rd to the 6th century CE.

The Sullanas are believed to have been minted in the Bengal region, particularly at the Bengal capital of Samata. They are known for their mixed metal technique, featuring a heavy silver core surrounded by a lighter northern Indian copper alloy material. This technique gave them a distinctive ‘core-and-ring’ appearance. Researchers suggest that this method allowed for the reuse of scrap metal, potentially increasing the availability of precious metals for minting.

Sullanas are often described as being poorly legible and show minimal artistic detail. Their inscriptions and artworks differ from the typical regional styles seen during that era. However, despite these characteristics, Sullanas appear to have been issued within select regions under a specific ruler's reign. The embossed images found on these coins are sometimes intertwined, similar to the decorative patterns employed in northern Indian coinage during the Shahi period.

The discovery of Sullanas often indicates the existence of alternative commercial networks and minting sites operating under regional authoritative control. Though Sullanas do not frequently show clear geographic features or monarchs' boasts about conquests and achievements, the specifics of the inscription suggest allegiance to a specific authority.