Ancient coins unearthed near Bundela-era fort in Khajuraho village spark archaeological interest

• Gold-like coins found by villagers during road work in Rajgarh near Khajuraho
• Coins may be 500 years old and possibly linked to the Bundela dynasty era
• Officials are investigating and locals urge an archaeological survey of the site

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A village near Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh has been abuzz after locals unearthed gold-like coins in Rajgarh village, close to the historic Rajgarh fort, triggering speculation about their age and origin. Locals claim the coins could be around 500 years old, reported NDTV.

The discovery was made when soil was brought in to level a road leading to the Swargeshwar Mahadev Temple. After rainfall in the area last week, villagers noticed a sparkle in the wet mud and picked up what later turned out to be coins, which they initially took home.

As news of the find spread rapidly, more villagers gathered at the site and even stayed overnight, digging in the area in the hope of finding similar coins. Photographs circulating on social media show at least one coin bearing what appears to be an ancient symbol.

According to locals, each coin weighs between 7 and 8 grams, fuelling suspicions that they may be made of gold. However, officials have not yet confirmed whether the coins are gold, copper or another metal.

Rajgarh is home to a palace and fort complex of the Bundela dynasty, a recognised heritage structure that dates back over 300 years. Built by the rulers of Bundelkhand between the 17th and 18th centuries, the fort has undergone multiple phases of construction, expansion and restoration over the centuries.

Villagers believe the coins could be linked to the Bundela era and may have been buried during periods of conflict or political transition.

Police said the matter is being investigated, with Bamitha police station in-charge Ashutosh Shrotriya stating that the recovered coins will be examined, said the report.

Meanwhile, locals and heritage enthusiasts have urged the state government to intervene and conduct a proper archaeological survey of the site, warning that unregulated digging could damage or result in the loss of historically significant artefacts.