What were the salient features of ancient Indian coins?
Ancient Indian coins were made from precious metals like gold, silver, and copper or their alloys. They were called kārṣhāpaṇas or paṇas and had symbols punched on them called rūpas.
The coins had two sides—the head (obverse) and the tail (reverse)—with different symbols and motifs engraved on them. These included nature motifs like animals, trees, and hills, as well as images of kings, queens, and deities.
For example, Chalukya coins featured a Varaha image (avatar of Viṣhṇu) on one side and a decorated three-tiered parasol on the other.
The minting and issue of coins was controlled entirely by the rulers.
Explanation
The chapter explains that coins were among the earliest forms of money. Rulers issued coins used by citizens for transactions. The chapter states: 'The coins were made from precious metals like gold, silver, and copper or their alloys. They were called kārṣhāpaṇas or paṇas. They had symbols punched on them called rūpas.' It also mentions the two sides with nature motifs, kings, queens, and deities, giving the example of Chalukya coins.
Solution Steps
Ancient Indian coins were made from precious metals like gold, silver, and copper or their alloys
They were called kārṣhāpaṇas or paṇas with punched symbols called rūpas
Coins had two sides—obverse (head) and reverse (tail)—with different symbols and motifs
Motifs included nature motifs (animals, trees, hills) and images of kings, queens, and deities
Chalukya coins featured Varaha image (Viṣhṇu avatar) and three-tiered parasol
Minting and issue of coins was controlled entirely by the rulers