103 Ancient Gold Coins Discovered During Renovation of Historic Tamil Nadu Sivan Temple

The temple is believed to date back to the reign of Rajaraja Cholan III. (Representational)

Tiruvannamalai:

During renovation work at a temple near the Javvadu hills, workers uncovered over 100 ancient gold coins, according to police reports on Tuesday.

A total of 103 antique gold coins were discovered in a mud pot while renovation work was being carried out on the sanctum sanctorum of the Sivan temple in Kovilur on November 3.

"Approximately 103 gold coins contained in a mud pot were discovered during construction work on Monday," confirmed a senior police official from the Polur Police Station to PTI on Tuesday.

When asked about the temple's history, the official mentioned that it dates back several centuries and is thought to have been built during the reign of Chola King Rajaraja Cholan III.

"The sanctum sanctorum of the temple was undergoing renovation work. During this process, the mud pot was discovered, and we were immediately notified on November 3," the official explained.

Officials from both the Revenue department and the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department have been informed of the discovery and will be responsible for investigating the historical significance of the coins.

"We have not filed any case regarding this matter. The HR and CE officials will research the history of these gold coins," the police official added.