Medieval Kashmir, Utpala Dynasty Gopala Varman Æ stater

Ruler : Gopala Varman
Era : (AD. 902 - 904)
Dynasty : Utpala Dynastuy
Denomination : Æ stater
Metal : Copper
Weight : 5.87 grams
Diameter :  18.03 mm
Reference Number : MNC 160

Obverse :
Goddess Lakshmi seated facing, with Nagari legend "Gopala" to right.

Reverse :
Ruler standing sacrificing at altar and holding trident; with Nagari legend "varma" to right.

Comment:
Gopala Varman succeeded his father but was killed in 904 by his minister Prabhakaradeva. At first he was followed by a supposititious son Sankatavarman who died after ten days. Then Sankaravarman's widow Sugandharani came to power.
A boldly struck specimen. Rare and choice.