What steps might have been taken in ancient times so that Indian coins could become the medium of exchange across countries?
Several steps enabled Indian coins to become a medium of exchange across countries.
Coins of powerful rulers were accepted across various kingdoms, not just their own, which facilitated trade across geographies.
The coins were made from precious metals like gold, silver, and copper, giving them intrinsic value that was recognised internationally.
Standardised coinage with specific weights and symbols (rūpas) made them trustworthy for trade.
The use of coinage helped boost India's maritime trade with the world, as evidenced by coins found in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The discovery of Roman coins in Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, shows that trade connections existed between India and other civilisations, and scholars conclude that the trade was in favour of India.
Explanation
The chapter explains that 'Over time, the coins of powerful rulers were accepted across various kingdoms and not just their own. This facilitated trade across geographies.' It also states: 'The use of coinage helped boost India's maritime trade with the world. For example, they were found in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.' The finding of Roman coins in Tamil Nadu demonstrates international trade connections.
Solution Steps
Coins of powerful rulers were accepted across various kingdoms, facilitating trade across geographies
Coins made from precious metals (gold, silver, copper) had intrinsic value recognised internationally
Standardised coinage with specific weights and symbols (rūpas) made them trustworthy for trade
Coinage boosted India's maritime trade with the world
Roman coins found in Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu demonstrate international trade connections