India – Kashmir Kingdom
Queen Didda (AD 979–1003)
AE Stater – Mitchiner NIS 177
Ex. Robert Tye Collection
A historically important bronze Stater issued by Queen Didda of Kashmir, one of the most remarkable female rulers in medieval Indian history. Didda ruled Kashmir from AD 979 to 1003, first gaining power as regent before ruling in her own name. Her reign marked the final phase of the Utpala dynasty and the beginning of the transition toward the Lohara dynasty.
Kashmir coinage of this period is distinguished by its distinctive artistic style, continuing long-established local traditions. The obverse typically depicts the goddess Ardoxsho (a form associated with Lakshmi) seated facing, accompanied by a legend naming Didda in Sharada/Nagari script, while the reverse features a stylized standing royal figure.
These large copper-alloy Staters are among the most recognizable issues of medieval Kashmir, reflecting the region’s unique religious, artistic, and political heritage. They provide a tangible connection to a period when Kashmir served as an important cultural center linking the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia.
This example is cataloged as Mitchiner NIS 177 and comes ex. Robert Tye Collection, adding desirable provenance from the respected collector and researcher specializing in Asian coinage.
Dynasty: Kashmir Kingdom
Ruler: Queen Didda
Date: AD 979–1003
Denomination: AE Stater
Reference: Mitchiner NIS 177
Metal: Bronze / Copper Alloy
Provenance: Ex. Robert Tye Collection
A fascinating medieval Indian coin honoring one of Kashmir’s most powerful rulers and one of the few women in Indian history to issue coinage in her own name.
