Question 1 · 10 marks · 155 words written
Opening
Coins have always been a reflection of the society, as economy as well as polity of the times.
Body · points
Numismatics to understand ancient India -
Seals during Indus valley civilisation • They tell us about trade with several civilisations like Mesopotamia.
Coins began to take shape during Magadh and Mauryan times.
Coins from Sangam empires show relevance of ships, trade with Romans etc.
Gold coins during Kanishka period shows strength of the polity and economy of the Kushanas.
Samudragupta playing Veena shows the patronage of arts by Guptas, thus creating Golden period of Indian history.
Decline of gold coins after Guptas shows weakening political and economic strength in that period.
State patronage to language and religion is reflected in the coins.
Coins also shows the technology and metallurgy of the times.
Close
Coins even today reflect the political nature, but for economic purposes, they are not very significant today.