Question 1 · 10 marks · 169 words written
Opening
Numismatic evidence plays a crucial role in understanding of polity and economy as most of them are produced as court art/economic purposes of great empires.
Body · points
Role of Numismatic in political history:
- provided information on the livelihoods and political culture of Indus valley civilisation
- eg: Steatite seals with symbol of power.
- widescale issuance of coins in Gupta period → showcases the
political power of Guptas.
Issuance of pure Gold coins → shows the Kushana progress
Satavahanas → used numismatics in trade → showing importance of ports in political strengthening.
Cholas → Cholanadu as sink of coins shows Imperial prowess in South East Asia.
Role in Economic History:
shift of coins from Bronze to Gold shows the economic power that is India
widescale availability of coins in Mesopotamia and Roman regions.
showcases the extensive trade with foreigners
Grants to merchants and religious preachers (eg): Harsha to Hieun Tsang
Close · a summary
Hence numismatics help in understanding the strength of Ancient Indian kingdoms.