c.1920's–1940's INDIA RAMATANKA India Temple Tokens SILVER PLATED or BRASS

Description: c.1920's–1940's INDIA RAMATANKA BROTHERS RAMA & LAKSHMANA SCENE SILVER PLATED BRASS or BRASS ***THIS COIN COMES IN A CAPSULE*** Temple Token Ramatanka (circa. 1920's-1940's these were seldom used after WWII) Miscellaneous tokens › Religious token Silver plated Brass or Brass • 12.9 g • ⌀ 29 mm MIT# 352, N# 44995 Mintage: N/A INDIA RAMATANKA - BROTHERS RAMA & LAKSHMANA, SILVER PLATED BRASS Ramatanka – Hindu temple token, (c.1850’s - 1940's) The designs on all Ramatankas were inspired by scenes from the Hindu epic, the Ramayana (meaning Rama's journey). This tells the story of Rama’s banishment, exile and eventual triumphant return to his claim his kingdom at Ayodhya. Dubar (platform) scenes on ramatankas always include the main characters of the Ramayana – Rama, his wife Sita, his half-brothers Lakshman, Baratha and Satrughra. The monkey god Hanuman, a loyal devotee of Rama is always there as well, giving devotion to Rama. Hanuman played a central role and provided invaluable assistance to Rama. A variety of temple tokens, commonly known as Rama Tankas, were made in India between the mid-19th and mid-20th Century. The privately minted tokens were sold or distributed at temples and bazaars. They were often given as gifts and would be treasured by families. Most are made from brass or silver-plated brass and tend to be crudely engraved. The most common types featured a scene from the ancient Hindu epoch poem called the Ramayana on the obverse. It depicts Rama and his wife Sita, seated on a platform, holding court (Durbar). To their right are their sons Kusha and Lava. An attendant holding a parasol is on their left. Beneath is Hanuman, the monkey god. The coins often bear a false date, which has nothing to do when the token was actually struck, but instead has a numerical significance. After World War II the use of the Rama Tankas died out. These silver plated tokens were probably struck between 1920 and 1940 and are approximately 28-29mm in diameter. The tokens are crudely struck. They show minimal wear, though may have a bit of green caused by the underlying brass. They are unusual though little known though highly collectible pieces. Thanks to a popular dealer website for providing information on these rare and collectible coins. c.1920's–1940's INDIA RAMATANKA - BROTHERS RAMA & LAKSHMANA, SILVER PLATED BRASS

Price: 21 USD

Location: Niles, Illinois

End Time: 2024-10-07T12:06:45.000Z

Shipping Cost: 4.7 USD