Who amongst the following issued gold coins regularly in ancient India?
U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2004
A. Satavahana
B. Saka
C. Kushan
D. Parthian
Answer: Kushan
Option c is the correct answer.
The Kushan Empire, which existed from approximately 30 to 375 CE, was known for issuing gold coins regularly in ancient India. Kadphises II was the Kushana emperor to first introduce gold coinage, in addition to the existing copper and silver coinage. These gold coins, weighing around 7.9 grams were a prominent feature of their coinage system, reflecting the empire's economic and political power. The designs on these coins often depicted deities and rulers, following Hellenistic styles of image. The Kushan rulers used their gold coins to assert their authority and influence, and these coins played a significant role in trade and commerce during that period.
Important Tips
Kushan Coinage: A Glimpse into Kushan Economy and Culture
Main Coins and Composition
In the coinage of the Kushan Empire (approximately
30
−
375
C
E
30−375CE ), gold coins were predominant, weighing 7.9 grams.
Wima Kadphises or Kadphises II conquered the whole of northwestern India as far as Mathura. He issued gold coins with high-sounding titles like the 'Lord of the Whole World'.
Base metal coins of various weights ( 12 g to 1.5 g ) were also issued; silver coinage was limited, and later gold coins were debased with silver.
Design and Influences
Artistic quality of dies was slightly lower than Greco-Bactrian coins.
Roman coin influence evident in late 1st and 2nd century CE designs, and in mint practices.
Iranian influence seen in royal figures and deity pantheon, with Persian titles under Kanishka.
Historical Insights from Coins
Tamga symbols on coins functioned as rulers' monograms.
Coins hint at a semi-independent empire structure, with regional autonomy.