India, Vijayanagara Empire 1336 -1646 Bele, The World’s Smallest Gold Coin

Medieval India, Vijayanagara Empire (1336 -1646), 1/10 Franam "Bele", The World’s Smallest Gold Coin (2.5"x2.5" Holder size)

The southern Indian city of Vijayanagar was the capital of an extensive empire that encompassed much of Southern India. It was the last great Hindu kingdom in India, acting as a bulwark against the expanding tide of Islamic and late Mughal power in the north. Noted for its opulent temples, its coinage reflected its great wealth. The bele is notable for being worlds the smallest gold coin denomination.

1/10 Franam “Bele

Obverse: Conch like shape

Reverse: Cross like Bele Mark

Composition

Gold

Weight

0.035 g to 0.04 g

Diameter

2 mm to 3 mm

Shape

Round (irregular)

Reference Numista : N# 67603.

Shipping US only

SKU# P1004 or P1004A