A beautiful and fascinating mini gold coin of India. These little gold coins have an interesting history and this little jewel is in very nice MS61 condition and certified by NGC.

A few facts of gold Fanams of India

1. Gold fanams were small gold coins that were widely used in various regions of India during the period from 1400 to 1800. These coins were often very tiny and had intricate designs. Here are some key points about gold fanam coins during this period:
2. Denomination: The term "fanam" refers to a small unit of currency. Fanams were issued in various metals, including gold and copper.
3. Issuers: Gold fanams were issued by different rulers, dynasties, and kingdoms across India. Various South Indian dynasties, such as the Cholas, Nayaks, and Vijayanagar, issued gold fanams.
4. Size and Weight: Gold fanams were typically very small and lightweight. They were often less than 0.5 grams in weight. The tiny size of these coins made them suitable for use in everyday transactions.
5. Designs: Despite their small size, gold fanams featured intricate designs. The designs often included depictions of deities, rulers, and symbols associated with the issuing authority.
6. Regional Variations: Different regions of India had their own variations of gold fanams, each reflecting the cultural and artistic influences of the respective dynasties.
7. Cultural and Religious Significance: Many gold fanams featured religious symbols and deities, reflecting the cultural and religious context of the time. Temples and religious institutions were often involved in the minting of these coins.
8. Trade and Commerce: Gold fanams were used in trade and commerce, and their small size made them convenient for transactions. They were an integral part of the economic system in medieval and early modern India.
9. Transition to Pagodas: Over time, the use of gold fanams evolved, and they were eventually succeeded by larger gold coins known as "pagodas" or "ashrafis" in certain regions.
10. Numismatic Collectibility: Gold fanams are highly sought after by collectors of Indian numismatics. Due to their small size and historical significance, they are considered valuable artifacts that provide insights into the economic and cultural history of the region.