★ Abhisheka Lakshmi flanked by two elephants ★

INDIA, Post-Mauryan (Deccan). Vidarbhas. Uncertain ruler, 1st century BC. AE (Bronze, 10x11 mm, 1.39 g, 1 h). Goddess Lakshmi standing facing on lotus; to left and right, elephant standing on short columns, pouring water on Lakshmi's head out of their trunks. Rev. Tree in railing in center with inverted taurine within; to right, chakra (sacred wheel). Pieper 575. Very rare. An unusually attractive example of this difficult issue. Minor corrosion spots, otherwise, very fine.

From a collection of coins from Central Asia.

Abhisheka Lakshmi is flanked here by two elephants anointing her with water while she stands on a blooming and flourishing lotus flower. This depiction symbolizes the wealth and prosperity that Lakshmi will bring to her devotees in return for their prayers.