During a routine clearing of wasteland behind the Jambukeswarar temple complex in Tamil Nadu, India, workers stumbled upon a remarkable find: a sealed metal jar buried approximately 2.4 meters deep.
Excitedly, they unearthed the container, which held a treasure trove of 505 gold coins.
Upon notifying temple authorities, police, and local officials, the jar was opened to reveal 504 gold coins, predominantly small in size, with one notably large coin, all adorned with engraved Arabic characters.
Promptly recognizing the historical significance, authorities engaged archaeologists for further investigation.
Initial analysis suggests that the coins, dating back to between 1000 and 1200, bear inscriptions consistent with Arabic script.
Experts speculate that these coins may have been brought to the region by Arab merchants during the heyday of the Chola dynasty, known for its extensive trade networks spanning Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean.
The Jambukeswarar temple, constructed around 1800 years ago during the Chola dynasty, has a rich history intertwined with trade and commerce.
Researchers posit that the donated pot of gold likely originated from affluent merchants or royalty as an offering to the temple.
Given the temple’s history of safeguarding valuable items, including an attempted looting by General Ulugh Khan in the 14th century, it’s plausible that the coins were buried for safekeeping, possibly forgotten or left unclaimed over time.