Description
Magadha Janapadha, Nanda Dynasty (c.345-321 BC), Silver Ardha Masakas, One Ratti weight standard or 1/32 Karshapana, 0.09 grms, 1x Bull to the right with taurine symbol around on obverse, Fishman & Todd #I12, Uniface, Extra Fine, Extermeely Rare. The origin and purpose of ardha māṣikas remain debated and inconclusive. These extremely rare coins are usually found in hoards dominated by Magadha kārṣāpaṇas and are often missed in excavations due to their very small size. Their weight appears to follow the Magadha standard of approximately one ratti, indicating deliberate issue. Some scholars suggest they were trial pieces of the late Nanda or early Mauryan period, while others propose limited use for donations or tax payments. The scarcity of surviving examples points to a very low mintage, leaving their exact function uncertain
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