In the context of ancient Indian numismatics and economic history, the term 'Nishka' originally denoted a type of gold ornament used in Vedic times, but what did it evolve to represent by the later periods?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Originally used as a valuable gold ornament in the Early Vedic period, the Nishka gradually evolved into a standard currency coin of high denomination used in commercial exchange across ancient India. Punch-marked silver coins known as Karshapanas were also widely circulated for ordinary trade. Land measurement units were denoted by terms like Nivartana, while religious grants were called Brahmadeya. The earliest gold coins in India on a large scale were issued by the Kushana rulers. Roman gold coins flooded South India due to the lucrative pepper trade.