Unearthing of ‘ancient coins’ creates flutter at Srikalahasti

Preliminary information is that the coins are not of gold, says MRO

Some coins with the insignia of a queen found in the possession of a person belonging to a village near Srikalahasti have become the talk of the town on Monday.

According to information, a resident of Empedu village, 15 km from Srikalahasti, reportedly found some coins of “antiquity” in a field. It soon spread like wildfire, reaching the ears of the revenue officials. The images of the coins also found their way into social media platforms.

Going by the historical importance of the Srikalahasti sub-division and the surrounding areas, thanks to the presence of Lord Vayulingeswara Swamy temple and its historical affinity with the Vijayanagara kings, particularly Srikrishna Devaraya, the account had immediately gained currency, leading to several unconfirmed versions.

Mandal Revenue Officer (Srikalahasti) Jareena told The Hindu that it was true that a resident of Empedu village had a few coins, whose antiquity was “in doubt.” “Preliminary information is that the coins are not of gold. But, it is yet to be ascertained which metal they are made of. We have asked the person to report to us along with the coins. As he is at present in Madanapalle, he said he would be doing so tomorrow (Tuesday),” the official said.