The Mahameghavahana dynasty (250s BC to 400s AD) was an
ancient ruling dynasty of Kalinga after the decline of the Mauryan Empire. The
third ruler of the dynasty, Kharavela, conquered much of India in a series of
campaigns at the beginning of the Common Era.
Meghavahana dynasty was contemporary to Satavahanas and their
rule extended to coastal Andhra. The coins this dynasty stand out among Deccan
coins on account of their not bearing any legend indicative of the family name
of the issuer.
Moreover, in the absence of any literary evidence even the
names of this dynasty have not been known with the exception of three figuring
in Hathigumpa and Manchapuri inscriptions. The coins brought to light the names
of the hitherto unknown rulers of the Meghavahana dynasty. Recent discovery of
more of these coins bringing to light names of new kings.
Coins of Meghavahana: the coin shown below is very scarce.
Obverse: Could be Tiger,
facing left with raised tail.
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Reverse: Brahmi legend.
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