Gold coins unearthed in Erode, Tamil Nadu

Over 740 small gold coins, believed to be dating to the 18th century, have been unearthed near Kottamalam in Sathyamangalaam forest in Erode, Tamil Nadu , revenue officials said today.

The 744 'Veerarayan' gold coins, weighing 350 grams,were found in a mud pot near the Kottamalam forest settlement when some persons were digging pits to plant saplings two days ago.

The Tahsildar, Shanmugam handed over the coins to district collector R Sudalaikannan today.

It was stated that the coins were made of pure gold and their total worth was around Rs5 lakh. It would be sent to the government treasury, the officials added.