Maung Sar Ga — Some historical relics and more than 150 silver coins have been excavated in Mrauk-U, the historic cultural center of Rakhine State, formerly known as the Arakan Kingdom in ancient history.
The historical items retrieved consist of a jade piece measuring about 1 inch in diameter, a gold pendant, three gold rings, several gold coins, and a collection of over 150 silver coins bearing the names of Arakanese monarchs King Sanda Thudhamma (who ruled from AD 1652 to 1684) and King Narapatigyi (who ruled from AD 1638 to 1645).
According to a local resident speaking to Narinjara, these ancient objects and silver coins were uncovered around 5 pm on January 24 in an area where neighborhood children were playing soccer.
"There has been a lot of interest from local residents. Some even asked if they could find more. They also brought in their gold and silver coins," he shared.
The initial discovery of the jewelry and coins occurred when Grade-7 student Maung Phyo Myat Oo and Grade-5 student Maung Soe Aung Min, while playing soccer, stumbled upon some coins after they slipped and fell during the match, prompting them to excavate further. After their discovery, they informed their parents and family members, who subsequently reached out to the authorities under the Arakan Army (AA).
Researchers have indicated that the coins were in circulation during the rule of King Sanda Sudhamma Raja, marking the third Mrauk-U period in the Rakhine Era (1034), as well as authentic silver coins used during the reigns of King Sinphyu and King Sinni Narapati in the Rakhine Era (1000).
The location where the jewelry was discovered is presently under the protection of the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government. Mrauk-U served as a royal center where successive Rakhine rulers governed, and ancient gold and silver coins, along with jewelry pieces, are frequently discovered in the area.
The Mrauk U Kingdom (AD 1430–1785) was a dominant independent state located in Rakhine State, Myanmar, recognized for its control of the strategic Bay of Bengal coastline and its distinctive stone architecture. Established by King Min Saw Mon, the kingdom thrived through commerce, a formidable naval force, and partnerships with Portuguese mercenaries, stretching its territory from the Sundarbans to the Gulf of Martaban.
