Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL)

Sri Lanka’s currency-use can be divided into following periods.

  1. Anuradhapura Era

  2. Polonnaruwa to Kotte Era

  3. Kandy Era

  4. Colonial Era

  5. Post-Independence Period since Establishment of the Central Bank of Ceylon

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Kahavanu or Lankeshvara coins

A Sinhalese gold coinage known as the 'Kahavanu" had been in circulation in the island from about the 7th to 8th centuries AD. These coins were either gold or gold-plated. They were distinguishable in terms of value as ‘Kahawanu’, ‘Ada Kahawanu’, ‘De Aka’ and ‘Aka’. On the face of the coin there is a human figure standing on a lotus stem. The figure appears to be clad in something similar to a ‘Dhothi’. The figure’s upturned left hand is holding an object against his tilted face. Some believe that the figure is ‘Kuwera’ the God of Wealth. There is a conch and Lotus flower on the flipside of the coin.

There are various opinions about these images. However, these coins can be grouped based on the object the figure is holding in his left hand; Sun and moon, Trophies, Lotus flower and half moon, Jasmine bud and lotus flower, Globe and bangle, Jasmine flower and conch.

Kahavanu

© Central Bank of Sri Lanka, 2018