Ancient Gold Coins Unearthed During Renovation at Jawadhu Hills Shiva Temple

A pot containing over a hundred ancient gold coins was unearthed yesterday during renovation works at the historic Thirumoolanathar (Adi Shiva) Temple in Kovilur village, located in the Jawadhu Hills block of Tiruvannamalai
district.
The temple, believed to have been built during the reign of Rajaraja Chola III, had remained in a dilapidated condition for several years. To preserve its heritage, the Tamil Nadu government recently sanctioned ₹2.49 crore for restoration works, including repairs to the sanctum sanctorum and the Rajagopuram.
While workers were digging near the Thirumoolanathar shrine as part of the renovation, they discovered a small pot containing 103 gold coins buried underground.
Officials from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department were immediately
notified. Assistant Commissioner Shanmugasundaram arrived at the site and recovered the coins, which were then handed over to Executive Officer Silambarasan for safekeeping.
Authorities have begun an investigation to determine the historical period and authenticity of the coins, which are believed to date back several centuries.