Coinage in Ancient India

Question 1

Coinage in Ancient India

Answer 1

1. Coins remained an important aspect of Ancient Indian economy right from their first evidence during the Mahajanapadas period.
2. First ever coins used in India history were punched marked coins of Mahajanapadas dynasties. These were mostly made of silver, and sometimes even copper. Literary and archaeological evidence suggests the usage of coins in the Indian subcontinent, dates around 6th-5th Century BCE.
3. Reason: rise of urbanisation, formal economy, expansion of overseas trade (Romans and Greeks already has practice of using coins) and rise of states and their integration.

Question 2

Coins during Kushan and Gupta Period -

Answer 2

1. Use of gold coins was prominent during the period of Kushans (specially King Kanishka). It showcases that economy was very strong, and trade was robust.
2. Coins of Guptas were unique in the form that these coins had religious images, gold composition, images of kings and queens and some leisure works.
3. Economic growth of ancient India got organised and unified due to coinage system. Similarity in currency also brought stability in trade and exchange of international goods. Soon India became the economic powerhouse and was also the largest economy of the world.
4. After Gupta period there was decline of economic activities which is evident from the fact that gold usage was very limited.

Question 3

Why was there a decline in numismatics after Gupta period?

Answer 3

Answer rn.