History • Ancient IndiaMedium
In the context of ancient Indian numismatics and archaeology, what significance do the punch-marked coins discovered at various Megalithic and early historic sites in Kerala hold?
A. They were issued exclusively by the Maurya Empire to levy centralized taxes on Malabar spice merchants.
B. They represent the earliest metallic currency in circulation, reflecting active monetization and local or long-distance exchange networks.✓ Correct Answer
C. They were minted solely by Roman traders as legal tender for procuring black pepper from the Chera ports.
D. They served purely as ritualistic temple offerings and were never used in secular market transactions.
💡 Solution & Explanation
Punch-marked coins made of silver and copper represent the earliest form of indigenous metallic currency in ancient India, dating back to the pre-Mauryan and Mauryan eras. Their discovery at archaeological sites in Kerala demonstrates that the region was integrated into wider peninsular monetization and trade networks alongside Roman coin hoards. These currency pieces bear multiple stamped symbols punched by merchants or governing authorities rather than standardized regal portraits.
More History Ancient India questions
- In the context of Vedic society, the administrative official responsible for the collection of taxes and…
- Consider the following archaeological and numismatic findings related to ancient Kerala trade: 1.…
- In the context of ancient Indian numismatics and monetary history during the Gupta period, which of the…
- Consider the following statements regarding the archaeological findings at Marakkanam and Vizhinjam…
- Consider the following statements regarding the Indus Valley Civilization: 1. The inhabitants worshipped…